“Blessed are the Peacekeepers.” These words etched in granite echo the solemnity of this place. Right here we stand before the Massachusetts Beirut Memorial. It stands as a testament to sacrifice and remembrance. The Massachusetts Beirut Memorial honors nine U.S. Marines from Massachusetts. They lost their lives in the Beirut bombing on October 23, 1983.
Imagine the scene. Beirut, Lebanon, 1983. Peacekeepers from America and France were stationed there during the Lebanese Civil War. A devastating attack struck. Suicide bombers detonated truck bombs. The blasts claimed 307 lives. Among them were 241 U.S. citizens and 58 French military personnel.
In 1992, Massachusetts dedicated this memorial. It ensures that the sacrifice of those nine Marines would never be forgotten. The Massachusetts Beirut Memorial sits next to Christopher Columbus Park in Boston. It is a place for reflection and gratitude.
Notice the circular granite-seating wall. It invites contemplation. Etched into the stone are the words: “Massachusetts Beirut Memorial – Dedicated to the nine Massachusetts Marines who lost their lives in Beirut, Lebanon 23 October 1983. Blessed are the Peacekeepers.”
The names of the fallen are prominently displayed. They are LCP Bradley J. Campus of Lynn. LCP Michael J. Devlin of Westwood. SGT MAJ Frederick B. Douglass of Cataumet. CPT Sean R. Gallagher of North Andover. SGT Edward J. Gargano of Quincy. CPT Richard J. Gordon of Somerville. CPT Michael S. Haskell of Westborough. SGT Steven B. LaRiviere of Chicopee. LCP Thomas S. Perron of Whitinsville. Each name represents a life cut short.
This Massachusetts Beirut Memorial serves as a poignant reminder. It reminds us of the courage and sacrifice made by our Armed Forces. Their efforts ensure our freedoms. This memorial stands as a reminder of the first act of terrorism in our current War on Terror.
Take a moment to reflect on the cost of peace. Remember the nine Marines from Massachusetts. Their names are etched here for eternity. May their sacrifice inspire us to strive for a world where peace prevails. The Massachusetts Beirut Memorial stands as a sacred space.