A Woman Stands in Remembrance

By Joanie Allbee

On the Memorial Day observance at Riverside Cemetery (164 Winter St.) in the Veteran’s Lot, there is a familiar sight year after year. It’s Carole Ludwig Drake covering her husband’s grave. During the ceremony, Saugus Veterans Council Commander Steve Castinetti gives the orders to cover the graves with flags. Once again, with flag in hand, Carole is at her resting soldier’s side, the honorable U.S. Army Medic Douglas Drake. She gently reaches over to place his flag in the veteran’s marker. Medic Drake served overseas in Germany in the Korean War. Douglas and Carole were married at St. John’s Episcopal Church on Feb. 10, 1957. Together, they shepherded their children Doug Jr., Daniel and Debra. (Doug Jr. achieved the high rank of Eagle Scout.) Veteran Douglas passed at age 63, leaving 39 years of wedded bliss. Carole has two grandsons (both Eagle Scouts) and one great-granddaughter.

Carole is a true Saugonian and a graduate from the Saugus High Class of 1954. Her family owned and operated Ludwig Cleaners on Vine Street. Miss Ludwig grew up surrounded by military folk. Carole’s seven uncles are buried in Riverside Cemetery. Three of her uncles are buried in the Veteran’s lot: World War II U.S. Navy Herbie Ludwig and Jim Ludwig and World War I U.S. Navy Samuel Ludwig.

Carole was a Cub Scout Leader and volunteered throughout the years with countless organizations. She is often found trying to make this world a better place. Carole is inspired by the late Rosalynn Carter and lives by one of her famous quotes: “Do what you can to show you care about other people and you will make our world a better place.”