By Jim Clark

The City of Somerville Board of Alderman issued a special citation at their regular meeting on Nov. 11 commending those Somervillians who have honorably defended our nation with their dedicated military service in the post-9/11 era.

The following individuals were specifically named in the citation: Virginia Hussey, Keith Benichasa, Orlando Jacquet, Thomas Gorman, Christopher Clark, James Roderick, Josue Veleny , David Farino, Jr., Gravin Guillen, Henry Diaz, Randy Isaacs, Michael Holland, Ernie Nadile, Jr., Diogo DeOliveira, Daniel Donegan, Matthew Kane, Alex Dasilva, Michael Marino, Christopher Theopil, Michael Finnegan, William Halloran, Michael Jefferson, Justin Bonner, John O’Connor, Robert Ankenbauer, Paul Anderson, Samir Messaoudi, John Tam, James Pefine, James Marques, Laura McCann, and Matthew McLaughlin.

The citation thanked these veterans “who have honorably defended our nation and our community with selfless, dedicated military service, serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, or elsewhere in the post-9/11 era.”

Additionally, the Board commended Police Officers Guerdy Legros and Timothy Nostrand, who were recently awarded the Alexander McQuestion Award, presented by American Legion Post 19 to the Police Officer of the Year.

The citation states: “Through their heroic actions, Officers Legros and Nostrand have demonstrated their dedication to the police service and to the people of Somerville.”

Likewise, Fire Captain William Fitzpatrick and Firefighter John FItzgerald, who were recently awarded the Thomas Chetham Award, presented by American Legion Post 19 to the Firefighter of the Year, were also issued citations of commendation. Their citation reads: “Through their heroic actions, Fire Captain Fitzpatrick and Firefighter Fitzgerald have demonstrated their dedication to the fire service and to the people of Somerville. The entire Membership extends its best wishes for ongoing success in all endeavors.”