Senator Timilty Offers Resolutions to Celebrate National Guard Birthday and to Honor Canton Veteran
(BOSTON, MA)— Recently, the Massachusetts National Guard celebrated its 386th birthday at the Massachusetts State House. Known as the Nation’s First, the Massachusetts National Guard was established by a charter of the Massachusetts Bay Colony legislature on December 13, 1636. Senator Walter F. Timilty (D-Milton) joined active-duty service members, veterans, and colleagues at the celebration. The event included the Commissioning of this year’s call of Army and Air Officers, the awarding of the Governor’s 20 Military Marksmanship Award, and the presentation of several prestigious decorations.
The National Guard falls under the purview of the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security. As the Senate Chair of the committee, Senator Timilty sponsored two Resolutions: one to mark the momentous occasion of the National Guard’s 386th birthday and the other to honor Bob DeYeso, a Canton hero, and World War II Veteran.
“Today, I had the honor of offering a Resolution to the Nation’s First and one of its finest,” stated Senator Timilty. “The Massachusetts National Guard enjoys a tremendous history and distinguished legacy. The four oldest organizations of the United States Army or the Army National Guard trace their lineage to the original North, South, and East Regiments of the Massachusetts Militia established in 1636. Today, the brave men and women who serve in the Massachusetts National Guard continue to uphold and build upon this legacy with their courageous and selfless sacrifice and service.”
The second Resolution, sponsored by Senator Timilty, Senator Paul R. Feeney (D-Foxboro), and Representative Bill C. Galvin (D-Canton), recognized Sergeant Robert DeYeso for his courageous military service. Sergeant DeYeso, a Canton resident, is a distinguished combat veteran. He served in World War II under a mobilized element of the Massachusetts National Guard. Sergeant DeYeso fought in both the Lorraine Campaign and the Battle of the Bulge. He was highly decorated for his courageous service. Sergeant DeYeso is a recipient of the Combat Infantry Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, two campaign medals, and the French Legion of Honor.
“Sergeant DeYeso is a true American hero,” said Senator Timilty. “I was honored to present him with a Joint Resolution from both the State Senate and House of Representatives, commemorating his brave service to our country. Each and every one of us can learn something from Sergeant DeYeso, his courageous service, his impeccable character, and his devotion to duty in defense of our great nation.”
“It was a tremendous privilege to celebrate the National Guard’s 386th birthday at the Massachusetts State House and to recognize Sergeant Robert DeYeso of Canton for his valiant service during World War II as a member of the Massachusetts National Guard. Sergeant DeYeso epitomizes what it means to be a hero among us, and it is an honor to serve him and all veterans in the Massachusetts State Senate,” said Senator Feeney.
“The resolution presented to Sergeant DeYeso is a symbol of the gratitude felt for his bravery, courage, and sacrifice during the war. WWII was a true battle to preserve our nation and nations across the globe. As a community, state, and nation, we are grateful for Sergeant DeYeso and his service,” said Representative Galvin.
The event concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting, with Governor Baker, Major General Gary W. Keefe, and other honored guests in attendance.
“I would like to thank all of those who helped make the event a success,” stated Senator Timilty. “It was great to see Brigadier General John Driscoll, Brigadier General Frank LaBollita, Representative Joe McGonagle, and many of my other colleagues in government at the event.”
