A Grateful Nation Remembers: Vietnam Veteran Jack Klecker pinned by Parson Roby Chapter, DAR

  (Editor’s Note: The Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution issued the following press release this week.)

On March 29th, as our nation paused to reflect on the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) gathered at the Saugus VFW to offer long-overdue recognition to those who served during one of America’s most turbulent eras.

Over 40 Vietnam veterans were honored and officially “welcomed home” with commemorative pins and heartfelt gratitude.

One local hero, John “Jack” Klecker — beloved Saugus resident and a 2023 Saugus “Person of the Year” — was looking forward to the event, but an injury kept him from attending. Determined that his service would not go unrecognized, Parson Roby Chapter Regent Gail Cassarino arranged a more personal tribute.

Learning that Jack was feeling better and planned to have lunch at his favorite restaurant, Hammersmith, Regent Cassarino surprised him there. With heartfelt words, she pinned Jack in honor of his service and presented him with a commemorative gift bag, which included a Vietnam Veteran’s remembrance book, a presidential proclamation from President Donald J. Trump, and a DAR challenge coin symbolizing honor and gratitude.

Jack Klecker’s legacy is a profound one. A graduate of the Class of 1956, he served our country with distinction for 30 years in the United States Navy. In 1969, he spent nine months off the coast of Vietnam aboard the USS Boston, providing critical support to the U.S. 3rd Marines stationed along the DMZ. After his military retirement, he continued to serve his community through a second career at Honeywell and countless hours of volunteer work.

For the past 50 years, Jack has called Saugus home. He is a devoted husband to Rosalie Matt, a beloved 27-year schoolteacher in Saugus, and together they have raised a family of three children and seven grandchildren. His dedication to veterans and local history is evident through his active roles with the Saugus Veterans Council, the VFW, the American Legion, and the Saugus Historical Society. Jack is also a gifted model builder, using his passion to bring local and national history to life — from the Saugus Iron Works that is on display at the Saugus Historical Society to farm and train layouts.

The ceremony, though smaller in scale, reflected the same deep gratitude and reverence as the larger pinning event. It served as a reminder that honoring our veterans is not confined to a single day or gathering — but is an ongoing commitment to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

The Daughters of the American Revolution is a non-profit, non-political service organization whose members are direct descendants of the patriots who fought or contributed to the cause of American independence. Through efforts like this, the Parson Roby Chapter continues its mission to preserve history, promote education, and inspire patriotism in the heart of our community.

For more information about the work of the Parson Roby Chapter, NSDAR, or to inquire about membership, please contact: pa******************@***il.com