Picture at top of page

Picture at top of page
In 1945, Marines persevered to victory in the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Friday, June 20, 2014

June Meeting Notes
The detachment met on June 17 as scheduled.  The meeting convened at 7:30 PM with 16 members in attendance.  The officers reports were conducted with an update on the detachment finances.  Chaplain Michael Whelan encouraged members to notify him of sicknesses or distress so that he can properly acknowledge that on behalf of the detachment.

Awards and Recognition
 At the Massachusetts State Convention in Hyannis, the detachment was recognized with a Departmental Meritorious Unit Citation.  This is in recognition of the active participation of the Metrowest Detachment in supporting the ideals and causes of the Marine Corps and the League.  A "well done" is extended to those members and supporters who were instrumental in earning this recognition.
Paul Carew and Ed Jolly were awarded  Distinguished Service Awards in recognition of their continued support of VA Visitation and other activities.

The regular order of business was suspended to present a recognition certificate to John Ciampaglia of Ashland.  In 2013, John was a spectator at the Boston Marathon finish line, waiting to cheer a friend on when the bombs went off.  His friend was not able to finish as many of the runners were stopped short of the finish line.  The experience of seeing the damage of the bombs and the disappointment of his friend led John to commit to run the 2014 Boston Marathon.
With a number provided by the town of Natick to benefit the charities of the Marine Corps League, John sustained both the rigorous training and the active fundraising that was required to complete the race.  With the personally rewarding experience of completing one of the running world's premier events behind him, John presented the Marine Corps League with a check for $4020.  Past State Commandant Warren Griffin presented John with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his accomplishment and contribution.

Golf Tournament Update
The Golf Committee has been meeting and laying the groundwork for the August 18 tournament.  The committee has again encouraged all members and interested supporters to work on selling ads and 50/50 raffle tickets and arranging raffle prizes.  A packet of materials including an introductory letter, an ad form and a book of raffle tickets has been sent to all members.  This is an important event as it is our primary fundraiser.  Please do everything you can to contribute to the success of this tournament.

Rose Sales
Warren Griffin and Mac McEntegart both reported successful rose sales.  Over $1000 has been raised to date and those members who have participated are congratulated for their efforts.

Fort Devens Cookouts
The detachment had a strong presence at the June 20th cookout for 25th Marines.  These will continue on a monthly basis and are used to fund the Marine Corps Ball.  Jim Hasting has urged member to plan on committing to help out at the Family Day that is coming up.  This is heavily attended and requires all the support we can provide.

 New Members
Major Peter Cappuzzi attended to discuss his new role as regional representative for Marine for Life.  As he has recently moved to Framingham,  he has also expressed interest in membership.  We welcome Major Cappuzzi and look forward to having him on board.

Young Marines
 Chip Fagan reported that the Blackstone Valley Young Marines, sponsored by the detachment, were recognized as the top unit in the state.  We congratulate the Young Marines and the work that Chip and his family have accomplished with this group.

2014 Officers


Judge Advocate John MacEntegart, Chaplain Michael Whelan, Commandant Dave Gentes, Senior  Vice Commandant Jim Hastings, Paymaster Bill Costello, Sgt at Arms David Barth (not in picture)