Dr. Rebecca Duda, left, and Philippe Thibault shook hands after unveiling a plaque honoring Dracut soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War. (Photo Courtesy Dracut Public Schools)
DRACUT — In commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, the Dracut School Committee and Dracut High School (DHS) recently dedicated the DHS Courtyard in honor of local soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War.
On Thursday, Oct. 29, state legislators, School Committee members, faculty and community members gathered for the unveiling of a plaque commemorating the 439 Dracut men who fought in pivotal American battles, including Lexington and Concord (1775), Bunker Hill (1775), White Plains (1176) and Saratoga (1777).
It is believed that Dracut has the highest rate of military service of any town in the 13 colonies, at 37%.
The plaque was funded by a donation of $2,500 from Dracut resident Philippe Thibault. School Committee Vice Chair Dr. Rebecca Duda sponsored the project and filed the original motion for the dedication. The plaque was placed in the courtyard of Dracut High School for all students to see and remember the 439 Dracut men who fought in battle.
“One of the things that makes Dracut so special is our rich local history,” said Vice Chair Dr. Duda. “As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, I’m especially proud that the School Committee dedicated the Dracut High School Courtyard to the 439 Dracut men who served in the American Revolution. They are part of Dracut’s story and our nation’s story. Dedicating the High School Courtyard in their honor is a small but meaningful way to honor their courage and sacrifice, keep their memory alive and inspire future generations to understand the importance of service to others.”
Superintendent Steven Stone welcomed attendees to the ceremony with opening remarks. Attendees also heard from Principal Mahoney, state Rep. Colleen Garry, state Sen. Vanna Howard and School Committee Chair Robert Sheppard.
The DHS band performed patriotic songs including the “Star-Spangled Banner” and “Yankee Doodle.”
Prior to the event, DHS History Department Chair Rebecca Hefele compiled “Dracut and the American Revolution,” a presentation exploring the lives of 40 Dracut soldiers. Her research explains the men and boys’ role in the war and includes snippets of historical records providing insight into their experiences.
“250 years on, we are proud to honor the memory of the men and boys who fought in the American Revolution,” said Superintendent Stone. “We hope that as our students visit this courtyard, they take a moment to reflect on the history of their town and the sacrifices so many local heroes have made so they can enjoy it.”
