The Sounds of Saugus

By Mark E. Vogler

 

Good morning, Saugus

This past Tuesday (March 25) was Medal of Honor Day, and Saugus residents who walked into Town Hall were in a unique position to participate in the federal observance that pays tribute to more than 3,500 American heroes who received the nation’s highest military decoration for valor in combat.

Monday was a rainy and gloomy day as I walked into Town Hall. But as I paused on the ground floor and looked in the direction of the Veterans’ Services Office, I noticed something inside the display cabinet alongside the wall that I hadn’t noticed before – the prestigious Medal of Honor that was bestowed posthumously upon World War II hero Army Staff Sergeant Arthur Frederick DeFranzo.

DeFranzo, a 1938 Saugus High School graduate, was the first Saugus man killed during the D-Day invasion. At age 25, he sacrificed his life on the battlefield to save the lives of his fellow soldiers. The Saugus VFW Post 2346 Hall was named in DeFranzo’s honor. DeFranzo is one of just 265 Medal of Honor recipients from Massachusetts, which has the third highest total of medals behind New York (677) and Pennsylvania (380). More than 3,500 American service people have received this medal of valor since it was first presented in 1863.

The Medal of Honor along with four other war medals that DeFranzo received have only been on display since last fall after a family member brought them to Saugus Veterans Service Officer Paul Cancelliere in a candy box. Cancelliere said he was motivated to find a place to display DeFranzo’s medals after learning that the town had planned a Halloween event for kids at Town Hall. He figured it would be a good way to expose many of the kids to a true hometown hero.

“We need to share these stories of valor. That’s what this is all about,” Cancelliere told me this week.

“If you’ve never seen a Medal of Honor, you can go and see one at Town Hall now. Staff Sgt. DeFranzo is one of nine who received the Medal of Honor from being part of the D-Day Invasion in Normandy,” Cancelliere said.

“That sort of sets you apart from the rest of the crowd,” he said.

Being the home of a Medal of Honor recipient also sets Saugus apart from many other Massachusetts communities. Cancelliere said he wishes that he could have found a separate display area for DeFranzo medals instead of having to share the same cabinet with another Saugus fallen hero – Marine Corp. Scott J. Procopio – who was killed in action in April 2006 while serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom. American Legion Post 210 bears Procopio’s name along with Capt. William G. Shoemaker of Lynn.

The Citation for the Medal of Honor DeFranzo received posthumously tells the story of his gallant sacrifice:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, on 10 June 1944, near Vaubadon, France. As scouts were advancing across an open field, the enemy suddenly opened fire with several machineguns and hit 1 of the men. S/Sgt. DeFranzo courageously moved out in the open to the aid of the wounded scout and was himself wounded but brought the man to safety. Refusing aid, S/Sgt. DeFranzo reentered the open field and led the advance upon the enemy. There were always at least 2 machine guns bringing unrelenting fire upon him, but S/Sgt. DeFranzo kept going forward, firing into the enemy and 1 by 1 the enemy emplacements became silent. While advancing he was again wounded, but continued on until he was within 100 yards of the enemy position and even as he fell, he kept firing his rifle and waving his men forward. When his company came up behind him, S/Sgt. DeFranzo, despite his many severe wounds, suddenly raised himself and once more moved forward in the lead of his men until he was again hit by enemy fire. In a final gesture of indomitable courage, he threw several grenades at the enemy machine gun position and completely destroyed the gun. In this action, S/Sgt. DeFranzo lost his life, but by bearing the brunt of the enemy fire in leading the attack, he prevented a delay in the assault which would have been of considerable benefit to the foe, and he made possible his company’s advance with a minimum of casualties. The extraordinary heroism and magnificent devotion to duty displayed by S/Sgt. DeFranzo was a great inspiration to all about him, and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the armed forces.”

 

DAR will honor Vietnam War veterans tomorrow

Vietnam veterans or surviving spouses will receive a Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Lapel Pin in a special ceremony tomorrow (Saturday, March 29) at 11 a.m. at the Saugus VFW Post, 190C Main St. Saugus. The Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) together with the Judge Samuel Holten Society of the Children of the American Revolution are marking a significant milestone in American history with a special celebration honoring the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. In a tribute to those who served during the Vietnam War, a special pinning ceremony will be held to honor Vietnam veterans and their families as part of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, a program led by the U.S. Department of Defense.

If you are a Vietnam veteran or a surviving spouse, please join us on Saturday, March 29, at 11 a.m. at the Saugus VFW Post at 190C Main St. Please RSVP to pa******************@***il.com or text 781-710-1829. Coffee and refreshments will be served.

 

Saugus United Parish Food Pantry

The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Fridays from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church.

 

Legion Breakfasts today

There’s a good deal for Saugus veterans and other folks who enjoy a hearty breakfast on Friday mornings. The American Legion Post 210 at 44 Taylor St. in Saugus offers Friday morning breakfasts for the 2024-25 season. Doors open at 7:30 a.m., with breakfast served from 8-9:00 a.m. for an $8 donation. Veterans who cannot afford the donation may be served free.

 

This week’s “SHOUT OUTs”

We received a “shout out” this week from Janice Jarosz, who spoke kindly of one of her neighbors: “I want to give a Shout-out to my neighbor Maureen Lucey. Maureen takes her dogs out at least twice a day and during that time she does double duty as our ‘safety patrol watchdog.’

“She also cares for a disabled neighbor – shoveling out his front steps and driveway – checking to see if he needs groceries and making sure he gets his newspaper.

“Thank you Maureen for watching over all of us.”

 

Want to “Shout Out” a fellow Saugonian?

This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mv***@*****st.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo.

 

Spring grounds cleanup April 1

  The Town of Saugus announced that spring grounds cleanup will begin at Riverside Cemetery on Tuesday, April 1. The Cemetery Commission kindly asks members of the public to remove any personal items, holiday items or seasonal items from the grounds before the cleanup begins.

  All veterans flags will be placed back on gravesites on Friday, May 23, at 3 p.m., prior to Memorial Day. For more information, please contact the Cemetery Department at 781-231-4170 or email Madyson Coburn at mc*****@*******ma.gov.

 

TCS plans Picasso Painting Night fundraiser April 1

  The Theatre Company of Saugus (TCS) invites the community to participate in a vibrant evening of creativity and support at a special fundraiser, Picasso Painting Night, on Tuesday, April 1, at 7:30 p.m. This spirited event will benefit the spring 2025 production of Steve Martin’s beloved play “Picasso at the Lapin Agile.” Unleash your inner artist and join fellow painting enthusiasts as our talented volunteer instructors guide you through creating a colorful masterpiece inspired by the genius of Picasso.

  TCS events are hosted at American Legion Post 210, 44 Taylor St., Saugus, in the upstairs hall, which is not wheelchair accessible.

 

Saugus Democrats caucus April 2

  The Saugus Democratic Town Committee will meet on April 2 at 7 p.m. in the second floor of the Saugus Public Safety Building (27 Hamilton St.). The purpose of this meeting will be to hold a caucus to elect delegates to the Massachusetts State Democratic Convention set for Sept. 13 in Springfield.

 

The SHS Alumni Association announces scholarships

The Saugus High School Alumni Association will be awarding Scholarships to graduating seniors again this June. Applications for Alumni Association Scholarships may be obtained from the Guidance Office. Students need to complete the application at home. Seniors should attend a brief meeting in the school library on Thursday, May 1, between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to answer two questions and attach their application.

Scholarships will be awarded to successful candidates in the amounts of $1,000 to $5,000. Seniors are encouraged to apply. There will be a minimum of 10 Scholarships awarded this year. Students pursuing further education at the college/university level, nursing and trade schools are encouraged to participate.

 

Saugus Little League Parade April 12

  The Saugus Little League will hold a parade to celebrate Opening Day on Saturday, April 12. For the second year in a row, Saugus Little League will join up with Saugus Softball Little League for the parade, which will exit the parking lot of the Belmonte STEAM Academy at 9 a.m., turn left onto Adams Avenue, right onto Central Avenue and left onto Hurd Avenue up to Grabowski Field. Guy Moley is working on getting 20 show cars to join in the parade, according to League President John Benoit.

  Fun for all with music, food, slush, entertainment and face-painting. Special guests will be honored by throwing out the first pitch as the league shows its appreciation to them. Stay tuned for more details.

 

Student Government Day returns

Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta announced that Saugus High School students will get to participate in a Student Government Day on May 1 in the second floor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall. The program will include a mock Board of Selectmen’s meeting with students acting as selectmen based on an agenda. There will also be a mock School Committee meeting as well as a mock Town Meeting, with students acting out their roles as tomorrow’s leaders of Saugus town government.

Stay tuned.

 

Memorial Day observances

Plans are already in the works for this year’s annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, which are set for Saturday, May 24. Contact the Saugus Veterans Council if you would like to help out. Council Commander Steve Castinetti can be reached at 781-389-3678 or st*************@*****st.net.

 

What’s going on at the library

• Watercolor heart mosaic: Please join us for creating a watercolor heart mosaic taught by a professional! This event will be in the Brooks Room from 1:00-2:30 on Saturday, March 29. Registration required – 5th grade and up.
• Hydrangea Painting class: A Hydrangea Painting class with Pop Up Art School will be held on Thursday, April 3, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Registration for the event is full; however, you can add your name to the wait list by submitting a form under the event listing on https://www.sauguspubliclibrary.org/events/. Join an engaging acrylic painting class where you’ll bring hydrangea blooms to life with hues of blue and purple. Discover new techniques and enjoy a fun, social atmosphere. All materials are provided. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Saugus Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

 

Senior Center hosts downsizing presentation April 7

  The Saugus Senior Center will host a special presentation on downsizing on April 7 from 10 to 11:20 a.m. This presentation – sponsored by Mango Realty of Saugus and Reading Cooperative Bank – will consist of presentations by experts who have worked with seniors who have downsized and simplified their life. Refreshments will be provided by Reading Cooperative Bank. Presenters will include:

• Mango Realty – Sue Palomba & Peter Manoogian
• Reading Cooperative Bank – Maureen Bernard – VP
• Attorney Donna DiGiovanni
• Home Investor Jason Scaduto
• Clean Out / Junk Remover – Bob Penta – Bob’s Unlimited
• Professional Organizer – Corrin Bomberger
• Moving and Storage Company – King Movers & Storage

  Mango Realty will share Falta’s story. The real estate company sold his Saugus home and found him a new home in an over-55 community on the South Shore.

 

Saugus Sachems Spring Track Program 2025

Coach Christopher Tarantino – also known affectionately as “Coach T” – announced plans for his Spring Track Program. “This program is geared toward new track and field athletes. It will prepare them for the larger-scale summer camp,” Coach T said in an email.

Here’s a summary of what interested kids and their parents need to know:

Who: Grades K-5^th.

Where: Belmonte Track.

When: 4:00-5:15 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays; May 6-June 12.

Cost: $100 first year, $50 if returning.

For any questions, further information or to register, please contact Coach Christopher Tarantino (Coach T) at 781-854-6778 or ch********************@***il.com

 

About The Saugus Advocate

We welcome press releases, news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is 6 p.m. on Tuesday. If you have a story idea, an article or a photo to submit, please email me at mv***@*****st.net or leave a message at 978-683-7773. Or send your press release to me in the mail at PO Box 485, North Andover, MA 01845. Let us become your hometown newspaper. The Saugus Advocate is available in the Saugus Public Library, the Saugus Senior Center, Saugus Town Hall, local convenience stores and restaurants throughout town.