Monday, November 2, 2009
William A. Connell Corner
from left to right are Bob Hedlund, James Murphy, Fran Burke, William Connell III, Mrs. Connell, Mike Mollisse, Sue Kay and Mike Smart
It was good to see a few local politicians mingling with some of their mentors yesterday at the dedication ceremony for William A. Connell, Jr. The ceremony was directed by Fran Burke, the Veterans Agent for Weymouth, and included the American Legion Color Guard as well as taps performed by two South Weymouth girls. School Committee Chairman Sean Guilfoyle, who also serves as Commander of the Sons Of American Legion was a member of the Color Guard.
Speakers included Mayor Sue Kay, Representative Jaime Murphy and Senator Bob Hedlund. Each one noting a debt of gratitude to the former State Representative. Most of the younger generation of Connells were there and William Connell III spoke of growing up in the shadow of his father. He also noted that his grandfather, William Connell Sr. was also a veteran of World War I and the first Commander of the American Legion Post of Weymouth. The Pool/Rink located on Broad Street is named in his honor.
Also in attendance were Weymouth Town Councilers Michael Molisse, Michael Smart and Patrick O'Connor. Former Representative Bob Ambler was also on hand and spoke fondly of his relationship with Mr. Connell. Former Senator Alan McKinnon and long time Weymouth pol Frank Fryer was also seen in the crowd.
Curious by their absence were any new candidates running for office. The only town government hopeful in the crowd was Gerald Murphy who is running for School Committee. Considering Election Day is tomorrow, it could have been an opportunity to meet voters in the surprisingly large crowd.
The corner is located in Columbian Square in South Weymouth at the intersection of Torrey Street and Pleasant Street in front of the Fogg Library. Mr. Connell lived on Torrrey St. and had a business in the Square for many years.
The American Legion Color Guard
Bob Ambler speaks as William Connell III looks on
POSTED BY STAN on November 2, 2009
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