Re-posting this in recognition of Veterans Day. This holiday is important to us at BillBrettBoston.com because of those who served and ensured our rights to publish and so many other freedoms.

(Originally posted on September 16, 2019)

SOUTH BOSTON — Retired US Marine Corps General John F. Kelly gave the keynote address at Sunday’s rededication ceremony for the Vietnam War memorial in South Boston that honors the lives of the 25 troops who lost their lives in the war.

Kelly, who most recently served as the White House chief of staff, reflected on the loss of his own son First Lt. Robert Kelly, who stepped on a landmine in Afghanistan in November 2010.

Since 1981, the Vietnam War Memorial in Medal of Honor Park in South Boston has stood as hallowed ground. On Sunday morning, a special Mass was said at St. Brigid Church as part of the rededication events. South Boston native and veteran Tom Lyons served as the event’s emcee.

General Kelly primarily focused on the lives of those who served and what they gave their country. “They are the reason why we can stand here today, on a beautiful day, and why we have this great democracy that we have. It’s people like that,” Kelly said.

Others who spoke included Gov. Charlie Baker, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, and Congressman Steve Lynch.

All photos by Bill Brett.