There were 2 solid weeks of events highlighting the St. Patrick’s Day/Evacuation Day and all of them brought pleasure to people of every age. Two of the final events were of course the Essay and Poster Competition and the Historical Exercises held at Thomas Park.
The Historical Exercises which is a long standing and cherished tradition and sponsored by the South Boston Citizens Association featured the ‘Laying of the Wreath, which is a ceremony and commemoration to the dedication of the first battle of the Revolution. Civilians and military alike stood at the attention during the wreath laying out of respect for those who helped win our nation’s freedom. As always, the impressive Color Guard was there to add to the solemn but proudly celebrated tradition.
Dignitaries in attendance were Mayor Marty Walsh, State Rep Nick Collins, City Councilors Michael Flaherty and Ennissa Essaiba George, Ed Flynn (US Navy Retired), Bill Desmond: Commander of the Allied War Veterans Council, South Boston Citizens Association President Tom McGrath, Bernie O’Donnell – Former SBCA President, SB Historical Society’s Robert Allison and many other distinguished guests including Colonel Knox.
Though it was a very cold day, there were many school children in attendance representing every school in South Boston which is a wonderful way for young students learn about the proud history of our nation.
Winners of Essay and Poster Competition, all of whom showed tremendous talent, youthful enthusiasm and put a lot of time and effort into their work for this event are as follows:
Essay Winners – High School Level
1st Place – Alex Dimanno 10th Grade at Boston Latin School
2nd Place – Joseph Maiullari 10th Grade at Boston Collegiate Charter School
3rd Place – Timothy Smyth 11th Grade Boston College High School
Essay Winners – Grades 6 thru 8
1st Place – Mary McKay at St. Peter Academy
2nd Place – Laura Donovan at St. Peter Academy
2nd Place – Keara Wilbanks at South Boston Catholic Academy
3rd Place – Alex Corsini at South Boston Catholic Academy
3rd Place – Eddie Tirabasi at South Boston Catholic
Poster Contest Winners
1st Place – Mya Donovan at Boston Collegiate Charter School
2nd Place – Adianna Acosta at JF Condon School
3rd Place Participants
Gregory Matthews at South Boston Catholic Academy
Talia Scott at JF Condon School
Isabel Sheehan at South Boston Catholic Academy
Mario Blasi at Boston Collegiate Charter School
Julia Secher at South Boston Catholic Academy
Most Creative
Ava McKunes at JF Condon School
James Mc Farland at South Boston Catholic Academy
