Last week I had the honor of rededicating the Freedom Shrine display at Haverhill High School. This one was very special to me, because the shrine was originally installed 15 years ago during my year as president of the Haverhill Exchange Club. Coming back to rededicate it in honor of America 250 felt like things had come full circle.
Watch the Rededication
What Is the Freedom Shrine?
The Freedom Shrine proudly presents 20 of the foundational documents of our country. Its purpose is to remind us that the freedoms we enjoy today are a gift from the past, the product of the idealism, determination and sacrifice of a vast number of courageous men and women who came before us.
Freedom Shrines are a signature program of the Exchange Club, displayed in schools and public buildings across the country. You can learn more at FreedomShrine.org.
Part of Our Exchange Club Americanism Programs
This rededication was part of the Haverhill Exchange Club’s Americanism programs of service, and a meaningful way for our club to celebrate America’s 250th birthday right here in Haverhill. I’m proud to have served as club president in 2010-2011, and you can find me among the club’s past presidents going all the way back to 1946.
Photos from the Day
Thank You
Big thanks to Exchange Club President Suzanne Gates, President-Elect Craig Bourgeois, Scott Paré and Kerri Petalidas. Thank you to Jen Eastman for her help with the new plaque design.
Thank you to Alison Colby-Campbell from Haverhill Life, Caroline Louise Cole from WHAV and Jonah Frangiosa from The Eagle-Tribune for coming out and covering the event. And of course, thank you to the always amazing and informative “Buffalo” Bob Harb for our keynote address.
Principal Mr. Downs, history chair Mr. Craven and the JROTC were awesome. And my daughter Stephanie did a great job with the National Anthem. Someday we’ve got to get her onto the big stage at Gillette Stadium, Fenway or the Garden. That’s Dad’s dream!
