HOLYOKE, MA. July 14, 2010. Deputy Chief
Timothy Moran of the Holyoke Massachusetts Fire Department was
presented an Outstanding Performance Certificate from the MA ESGR
Field Office for his outstanding support of a wounded U.S. Marine
and his family. He was nominated for this recognition by Suzann
Bouchard, the step-mother of U. S. Marine Sergeant (Sgt) Joshua
Bouchard. With only two week's notice of the seriously wounded
serviceman's return to the local area. Ms. Bouchard asked the Deputy
Chief if he could help her hang up a large "welcome home"
banner. Thinking that Sgt Bouchard deserved a lot more, Deputy Chief
Moran planned, and arranged a "welcome home" parade in the
short period of time before the return. He arranged for Massachusetts
Lt Governor Timothy P. Murray, a band, a lengthy line of
motorcyclists who ride for organizations made up of veterans, a
Marine Corps color guard, a Marine Corps League color guard, and a
police escort to be on hand.
Sgt Bouchard arrived by motorcade, riding
in the back seat of a 1966 blue Pontiac Tempest convertible which
passed under a huge American flag hung from the extended ladders of
a pair of fire trucks. A large crowd turned out on the bright, warm,
early spring Saturday to show their appreciation for his service and
his sacrifice. As the motorcade stopped Lt Governor Murray said;
"Josh, on behalf of the people of the commonwealth of
Massachusetts, welcome home. Thank you for your service".
Deputy Chief Moran's outstanding effort resulted in a great welcome
for Sgt Bouchard.
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a
Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of
ESGR is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve
service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of
the USERRA law of 1994 and resolving conflicts through mediation. The
MA Field Office has more than 40 volunteers dedicated to helping
every "Citizen Soldier". On hand representing MAESGR were
Ombudsman Director and Western MA Area Chair Earl Bonett and Staff
Member Bill Hebert.
Left to Right:
Suzann Bouchard, Deputy Chief Timothy Moran and Earl Bonett
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Firefighters
from the Holyoke Fire Department observe the ceremony
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If you would Sign a Statement of Support or
join the MA ESGR Committee and volunteer your time, please call us
at 508-233-7249 or go to www.esgr.mil.
