Burlington honored Cold War veterans during a town common ceremony on Wednesday morning, recognizing the vigilance required from 1945 until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.
“For more than four decades, from the end of World War II in 1945 until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, our nation lived through a period of uncertainty, tension and constant vigilance known as the Cold War,” said Veterans’ Services Director Christopher Hanafin.
Hanafin said that while the era avoided full-scale conflict, it was not without cost. Many veterans faced hazardous conditions, military accidents, and lasting physical and emotional effects from their service. He credited these service members with guarding borders, operating submarines and aircraft, and gathering intelligence to help deter conflict.
Two veterans shared personal accounts of their service during the event. Ray Adams, who joined the Air Force in February 1957, served as an aircraft mechanic and crew chief on a Boeing RB-47. “Stationed in Kansas, I did top secret assignments all over the world,” Adams said. “We kept tabs on Russians all of the time.”
Timothy Whitson, a United States Army veteran who served as a First Lieutenant and received the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service before his 1968 discharge, also spoke at the event. Whitson, who commissioned as an officer during the height of the Vietnam War, told the audience, “As time went on, I wanted to serve our country. My dream of becoming an American soldier was becoming a reality.”
Attendees included local residents and Girl Scouts, who distributed hand-made thank you cards to veterans. Nancy Joyce, a Burlington resident, said that hearing the personal perspectives of the speakers added meaningful context to the service.
The ceremony served as a specific tribute to those who maintained a military presence during the decades-long tension with the Soviet Union. Chaplain Reverend Francesco Passamonte referenced Isaiah 41:10 during his invocation, emphasizing the themes of service and sacrifice. “United, we stand to honor the men and women who served the United States armed forces for setting aside their own interests in service to others,” Passamonte said.
Both guest speakers maintained long-term ties to Burlington through their work with the local Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter. Adams, a former vice president of customer service at Roll Systems, served as a past Adjutant of the Burlington DAV. Whitson has supported various DAV initiatives, including coordinating meals, assisting with bingo, and participating in pet therapy programs.
According to Veterans’ Services Director Christopher Hanafin, it encompasses the years between the end of World War II in 1945 and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
What specific role did Ray Adams hold in the Air Force?
Adams served as an aircraft mechanic and crew chief aboard a Boeing RB-47 after enlisting in February 1957.