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May 22, 2009
A Memorial Day Message from Harriet
My father was a naval officer in World War II. As a child, I used to look with awe at the photographs he took—he was always taking photographs. In particular, I remember seeing his picture of the signing ceremony at the end of the war. I could only imagine what a moving moment that must have been.
Through Grand Circle Foundation, Alan and I work closely with our associates to support communities around the world—as well as closer to home. Here in Boston, our largest community service event is called Rebuilding Together Boston, and each year more than 100 associates recruit their friends and family to help renovate the home of someone in need.
This year, our project was a special one. The New England Center for Homeless Veterans (NECHV) serves more than 1,000 veterans a year—veterans who have battled substance abuse and PTSD, and who are now committed to getting their lives on track. One hundred and thirty OAT associates worked together to renovate the center’s main dining hall, repainting walls and installing a drop ceiling to reduce heating costs. They worked hard, but they also had fun—and at the end of the day, they were able to step back and look with pride at the difference they made. View photos of our event here.
This Memorial Day, as I always do, I’ll be thinking of my father—and I’ll also be thinking of the veterans supported by the NECHV, who were once brave in battle and must now summon their bravery yet again as they confront the ghosts of their past.
To all of our veterans and those who support them, I honor you this Memorial Day.
Harriet Lewis