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Central One’s Tribute to Veterans

This Veterans Day, we sponsored a number of events and charities to show our respect for the service, sacrifice, and dedication of veterans in our community. Our commitment goes beyond a single day, which is why we honor veterans in a number of ways. 

A notable reason this year is extra special is that several military branches including the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and the U.S. Army, are celebrating 250 years of service. This milestone is a reminder of the legacy and strength embedded in these branches. 

No matter the branch, this day holds personal meaning for many, including our President and CEO, Devon Lyon, who shared:  

“My grandparents served in the military. Their stories remind me that behind every veteran is a legacy of service and strength. To those who have worn the uniform: thank you. Your courage, your time away from loved ones, the milestones missed, and the challenges you’ve faced in military life are deeply appreciated. Your service does not go unnoticed.” 

We’re proud to participate in events and initiatives that celebrate and support veterans throughout our communityThese efforts are also part of our broader commitment to giving back, which you can explore further on our philanthropy page. 

Here is a look at how Central One honored Veterans Day this year.  

Run4Veterans 5k Road Race 

Staff from Central One came together to take part in the Run4Veterans 5k Road Race, a fundraiser hosted by Veterans Inc., to support homeless veterans.  

For many of our staff, it was their first 5k, but that didn’t stop them from showing up and trying their best. This effort proves that supporting veterans doesn’t have to be complicated; it should just come from the heart! 

Shrewsbury Branch Manager, Heather Forchilli filmed her POV of the race. You can watch her recap at the bottom of this blog. 

Veterans Breakfast at The Westborough Senior Center 

On November 10th, we sponsored a free breakfast for veterans at the Westborough Senior Center. Veterans enjoyed bacon, eggs, and toast while being honored with military branch hymns. This breakfast coincided with the exact date of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, making it a memorable celebration. 

To further show our appreciation, we presented a $1,000 check to the Westborough Veterans Advisory Board after the meal. Treating our local veterans to a warm breakfast is one small way we can show our gratitude for their service.  

Watch our video-recap of the Veterans Breakfast below. 

Veterans Lunch & Wall of Honor 

We also made a point of recognizing the veterans who work for us. Central One employees who have served were treated to a complimentary lunch at Tavern in the Square, filled with laughs and good company.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beyond the lunch, we encouraged all employees to contribute to our “Veterans Day Honor Wall” on our internal website. Non-veteran employees shared stories and photos of loved ones who have served, including the military branch and a brief description. Highlighting our employees, their families, and their service made this tribute especially meaningful. 

Thank You Veterans 

Veterans Day is more than a holiday. It’s about recognizing courage, commitment, and the people who make our communities stronger every dayFrom all of us at Central One, we want to say thank you to veterans today and every day. 

 


Watch Heather’s POV video from the Run4Veterans 5k Road Race below.  

 

 

 

Branch lobbies, drive-ups, and the Member Support Center will close at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, 2/3, for a staff meeting.