By Matthew K. Roy
Staff writer
—
SALEM — Congressman John Tierney filed legislation yesterday designating his home city of Salem as the birthplace of the National Guard.
Tierney introduced the bill, which was co-sponsored by the entire Massachusetts congressional delegation, shortly before leaving Washington and returning here to participate in this morning's observances of the 374th anniversary of the first muster on Salem Common. The muster was the first time a regiment of militia drilled for the common defense of a multi-community area, and it laid the foundation for what would become the Army National Guard.
"Among its rich history, Salem was the site where our country's earliest military regiment met, organized and conducted drills in preparation for defending the local community," Tierney said in a press release. "I am pleased to introduce this legislation designating the city of Salem as the birthplace of the National Guard. The city and Commonwealth have adopted similar resolutions, and I will work with my colleagues to see that this bill is passed in the United States Congress."
The Salem City Council unanimously adopted a resolution in 2007 that recognized Salem as the Guard's birthplace. Last August, Gov. Deval Patrick visited Salem to sign a bill, originally filed by state Rep. John Keenan, that affirmed the designation. Patrick was joined in the City Council chamber by Keenan, Mayor Kim Driscoll, Senate Majority Leader Fred Berry, Tierney and a contingent of National Guardsmen and Salem veterans.
"To have the federal recognition would be a tremendous boost to the history of Salem," said Lt. Cmdr. Larry Conway of the Second Corps Cadets Veterans Association of Salem. "We're very appreciative of the congressman for doing this."
The Second Corps Cadets is organizing today's commemoration and re-enactment of the first muster, which will be preceded by ceremonies in front of St. Peter's Church and the old Salem Armory (now the site of the Visitor Center).
At 10 a.m., the Second Corps Cadets will gather in front of St. Peter's Church, where their founder, Stephen Abbott, is buried. They will lay a wreath, play "Taps" and fire a 21-gun salute.
There will be a memorial service in front of the old Armory to commemorate soldiers who were killed in the battles of Lexington and Concord. Hundreds of National Guard troops will then convene on Salem Common, where the ceremony will include a Howitzer cannon 13-gun salute and a flyover by F-16s at 12:15 p.m.
Looking toward next year, Conway hopes the federal bill will pass in time for the 375th anniversary.
"It's a great thing for the city of Salem and the whole area as well," he said.
