AGAWAM Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Western Mass News, alongside veterans and residents of Agawam gathered at a park to honor Veterans Day, while also marking the opening of a new Memorial Plaza.

On Monday, Agawam continued the tradition of paying tribute to our veterans while also marking the opening of a new Memorial Plaza, with veterans like Bob Gusek in attendance.

Air Force and Air National Guard Veteran, Bob Gusek told us, “It’s just nice to know that people in town really appreciate our Veterans.”

Gusek served during the Vietnam era, with his dad and uncles serving during World War II.

Gusek tells Western Mass News if he could serve his time in the military again, he would.

The community gathered at School Street Park for their Veterans Day ceremony.

Formerly at Phelps School, it was moved to this location as the town officially opened its new Veterans Memorial Plaza.

Agawam City Councilor Anthony Suffriti said, “Moving here allowed more general public usefulness to it because you can’t use school grounds during school hours. So this is available for people to come visit during the day during school hours.”

The move was made because of safety and space concerns at the school.

In the circle are hundreds of Honor Roll vets from Agawam who served in the military, and plaques with names of Agawam veterans killed in action.

With the flag being raised at the plaza for the first time, City Councilor Anthony Suffriti says this year’s ceremony has more meaning.

“Veterans should be recognized every day, not just on Veterans Day. But to be able to bring them altogether and say thank you in one spot on one particular day, it’s a special moment.”

The Agawam Veterans’ Council says finishing touches to the plaza will be made within the next year.

For now, anyone can stop by School Street Park and glance at all of the names of those from the town who served, as well as made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

Copyright 2025. Western Mass News (WGGB/WSHM). All rights reserved.