Lowell – Lowell Memorial Auditorium will dedicate a plaque honoring John F. Landry Jr., a Lowell native who was killed in action in Iraq on March 17, 2007. The dedication will take place as part of the Veterans Day ceremony on November 10, 2026, recognizing Landry alongside the other Lowell servicemembers who gave their lives in service to their country.
The initiative was carried out by the Lowell Bicentennial Fundraising Committee which includes former State Senator Steve Panagiotakos, Shelagh Mahoney, and Mike Kuenzler, who revealed the news during the Monday October 19, 2026 edition of the Daily Pulse Podcast.
Panagiotakos, who also served as a State Representative, noticed that Landry’s name was missing from the memorial plaques displayed at the auditorium. According to Panagiotakos, 1,278 Lowell residents have been killed in action, but only 1,277 names are represented on the plaques.
“We wanted to make sure that he was remembered also,” said Panagiotakos. “And so that’s what this plaque dedication is about, to honor him with all the others who have given their lives for our freedom.”
Panagiotakos noticed the omission while visiting the auditorium during a bicentennial concert. The discovery held personal significance, as Landry had grown up in the same Lowell neighborhood as Panagiotakos, was friendly with his nephew, and they both attended Lowell Catholic together.
Lowell Memorial Auditorium was built to honor local servicemembers who lost their lives in the nation’s wars. Adding Landry’s name to the memorial will help fulfill that mission and ensure his sacrifice is recognized.
“To have his name not being there [Lowell Memorial Auditorium] was an omission. And that will be rectified,” said Panagiotakos.
Landry served as a private first class and was killed in action outside Baghdad, Iraq, on March 17, 2007. His plaque will become part of the auditorium’s ongoing tribute to the Lowell servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Family members are expected to attend the ceremony and participate in the plaque unveiling. Steve Panagiotakos will also offer remarks during the dedication. The ceremony is open to the public, and food and complimentary beverages will be served afterwards.
Community members are invited to attend the Veterans Day Ceremony on November 10 at Lowell Memorial Auditorium to honor Landry’s service and remember the Lowell residents who gave their lives in defense of their country.
