Dear JFS Community,
I hope this Memorial Day message finds you and your family in good health.
Each year, I have the honor of preparing for Memorial Day weekend by joining fellow MetroWest veterans in replacing worn flag markers with new American flags on the graves of the men and women who served our country in the military. It is always a solemn and deeply reflective experience. I often pause to read the names, dates, and inscriptions on the grave markers to learn more about those who gave so much in service to our nation. Some lost their lives in the very conflicts in which they served. Since the Revolutionary War of 1775, more than 1.2 million Americans have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms.
This past weekend, I was especially moved by the story of Private Peter Salem, a formerly enslaved man and Framingham resident who earned his freedom by serving as a Minuteman during the Revolutionary War. He fought bravely in several battles and is remembered as one of the heroes of the Battle of Bunker Hill for his fierce courage and commitment to liberty and justice. Here is the amazing story of his heroism and commitment to justice and freedom https://www.battlefields.org/learn/biographies/peter-salem
CEO Lino Covarrubias at the grave site of Private Peter Salem
As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding on July 4th, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse individuals who helped build and defend this country. In today’s climate, where immigrants are too often the subject of negative rhetoric, it is important to remember that immigrants also played a major role in America’s fight for independence. In fact, nearly half of the Continental Army was foreign-born, coming from places including England, Scotland, France, Germany, Poland, and the Caribbean. Find some notables and a great teaching resource here: https://www.ilctr.org/for-teachers/teaching-us-immigration-series/immigration-american-revolution/.
As we gather this weekend for barbecues, outdoor activities, and time with loved ones, let us also remember the true purpose of Memorial Day*. Attend a local memorial day service. Visit a military cemetery. Observe a moment of silence. Share the stories of fallen heroes with family and friends. Let us honor the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice that continue to sustain our way of life. Here is a great link to the stories of many of our fallen over time. https://myfallensoldiers.com/
It is also important to remember the families left behind after the loss of a loved one in battle. These families are known as Gold Star Families — a designation no family ever hopes to receive. Their sacrifice and grief endure long after the conflict ends, and they deserve our gratitude, compassion, and support. https://americasgoldstarfamilies.org/. The America’s Gold Star Family organization helps families in many ways. A worthy organization to support in memory of someone for Memorial Day.
Wishing you a meaningful, reflective, and safe Memorial Day weekend.
With gratitude and resolve,
Lino Covarrubias
CEO, Jewish Family Service of Metrowest
U.S. Navy Veteran
Follow the links below for local events and resources to honor Memorial Day:
FHC Memorial Day Exhibit – “Stories Yet to Be Told” – Thursday, May 21st 12:00 PM (cost: free!)
https://framinghamhistory.org/events/stories-yet-to-be-told/
Natick Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony – Monday, May 25, 2026
https://www.natickma.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=12945&month=5&year=2026&day=25&calType=0
Celebrate Memorial Day 2026 at these parades, events in Massachusetts
https://www.patriotledger.com/story/lifestyle/things-to-do/2026/05/13/memorial-day-2026-list-of-parades-and-ceremonies-in-massachusetts/90040955007/
Public Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremonies to be held at 130 of National Cemeteries this Memorial Day weekend
https://www.cem.va.gov/volunteer/Memorial-Day.asp
National Mall and Memorial Parks Programs (includes information about programs that will be live streamed)
https://www.nps.gov/nama/learn/news/memday2020.htm
Memorial Day Activities for Boston Visitors – 2026, Ceremonies & Fun Things to Do on Memorial Day Weekend in Boston
https://www.boston-discovery-guide.com/memorial-day.html
Participate in the 2026 Home Base Memorial Day Flag Garden, Boston Garden – May 20, 2026 – May 25, 2026
https://www.meetboston.com/event/memorial-day-flag-garden/90389/