Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches Veterans Legacy Trail to Commemorate MA250

Fall River — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today launched the Massachusetts Veterans Legacy Trail, a first-of-its-kind project cataloging more than 1,200 war memorials across Massachusetts. Developed as a signature initiative of the Massachusetts 250th Anniversary (MA250) commemoration, the Trail honors the service and sacrifice of veterans and military service from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

The new initiative features both an interactive website and a companion brochure, designed to help residents and visitors explore Massachusetts’ military history in engaging and accessible ways.

“Massachusetts has always been at the heart of America’s story,” said Governor Maura Healey. “With the Veterans Legacy Trail, we’re connecting Massachusetts residents and visitors alike with the sacrifices of generations who served, and ensuring their legacy is part of how we commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary.”

“The Veterans Legacy Trail makes history tangible,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Whether it’s a neighborhood monument like Bunker Hill in Charlestown or a landmark like Battleship Cove, these sites tell stories that belong to all of us — and they help us teach future generations the meaning of service and sacrifice.”

“Our veterans’ history is Massachusetts history,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “This project is about honoring those who came before us, while making it easier for families, schools, and communities to explore and engage with their legacy. We’re proud to partner with MA250 and the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism to bring this vision to life.”

“The Massachusetts Veterans Legacy Trail exemplifies the collaborative spirit of MA250,” said Kate Fox, Executive Director at the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. “It honors the courage of those who fought for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, while connecting communities through shared stories. Trails like this invite visitors and residents to explore our state in new ways, strengthening our role as leaders and revolutionaries and deepening tourism, education, and civic pride.”

The project was formally launched at Battleship Cove in Fall River with Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Secretary of Veterans Services Jon Santiago, and partners from the Massachusetts legislature, Office of Travel and Tourism and the MA250 Commission.

About the Project

The Veterans Legacy Trail website offers a searchable map of more than 1,200 memorials in towns and cities statewide. Each entry includes location information, photographs, and historical context. Users can search by region, war era, or community to uncover local stories of service and sacrifice.

As a companion to the digital platform, the Veterans Legacy Trail brochure compliments the digital platform by featuring the top 10 memorials in each of the Commonwealth’s six regions. Modeled after the Massachusetts Ice Cream Trail, the brochure provides an easy-to-use, family-friendly encouraging residents and visitors to explore landmarks that define Massachusetts’ military history. 

The Veterans Legacy Trail website is now live at mass.gov/vetstrail and you can view a digital copy of the brochure here.

For more information on the Massachusetts 250th Anniversary, visit www.massachusetts250.org. 
 

Statements of Support

House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy): 
“There’s no better way to commemorate the Commonwealth’s 250th anniversary than by honoring the service of the military men and women who have fought and risked everything for our freedom,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “Moreover, as we continue to honor their service, the Veterans Legacy Trail will also serve as an interactive history lesson for residents and tourists when they visit war memorials across Massachusetts.”

Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland):

“Veterans have helped shape the freedoms and civil liberties we are privileged to enjoy here in Massachusetts and across the country. As the daughter of a veteran, I take pride in seeing our state celebrate their legacies. I am proud of the steps the Legislature has taken to ensure our veterans are well cared for in the Commonwealth, and I applaud the Healey-Driscoll Administration for honoring their service and sacrifice through this innovative project.”

Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means: 
“I’m honored to host Secretary Santiago on his visit to tour Battleship Cove, Fall River’s historic war memorial and maritime museum. Displaying the largest collection of World War II-era naval vessels, it is the proud home of the highly decorated battleship, the USS Massachusetts. Since its incorporation in 1964, more than 5 million visitors have toured Battleship Cove, which continues to expand and offer new exhibits relating to historic war ships and veterans who served on them. I’m thrilled to have the Secretary experience firsthand Battleship Cove, the crown jewel of the Southcoast.” 

Representative Carole Fiola (D-Fall River): 
“There is no better place to launch the Veteran Legacy Trail than Battleship Cove, Fall River, where our greatest generation made so many sacrifices as they served on the USS Massachusetts. This trail serves as a reminder to never the sacrifices of our veterans.”

Senator John Velis (D-Westfield): 
“The Veterans Legacy Trail is a powerful tribute to the generations of men and women who have served our Commonwealth and our nation. By making these memorials accessible to residents and visitors alike, we ensure that we never forget those who fought for the freedoms we hold dear; from America’s first soldiers at the Battles of Lexington and Concord to the sacrifices of today’s service members.”

Representative Joseph McGonagle (D-Everett):

"Massachusetts has always been a leader in supporting our military and veterans and honoring their legacies. This project is no different and I'm thrilled to see it in action. Our brave men and women deserve to be honored across generations and there is no time more appropriate than now."

Representative Alan Silvia (D-Fall River):

“As a Vietnam Veteran, and legislator, I am excited about the Legacy Trail at Battleship Cove. This gives all an opportunity to learn and be informed about our rich and honorable military history.” 

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