Patrick O'Connor

RT @MassEOVS: Yesterday, we came together for Massachusetts’ first Military Service Members and Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day at the State House. @MassGovernor Healey, Secretary Goralnick, @MassDPH Commissioner Goldstein, @MassDMH Commissioner Bailey, @PatrickMOConnor and @JoanMeschino joined families who have lost a loved one to reflect, share resources, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring our military and veterans have access to the care and mental health services they need. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful day of remembrance, connection, and continued commitment to preventing suicide in our military and veteran community. Learn More: @FriendsMilitary @StateRepJoe @BrotherChris617

RT @MassEOVS: Last year, @MassGovernor Healey signed a law designating Sept. 22 as Military Service Members and Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day in Massachusetts. Today, families who have lost a loved one to military service member or veteran suicide gathered at the State House with fellow community members to remember those who have been lost and continue raising awareness to prevent future deaths. Secretary Goralnick, @MassDPH Commissioner Goldstein, @MassDMH Commissioner Bailey, Senator @PatrickMOConnor and Rep @JoanMeschino offered remarks, shared resources, and committed to continuing the work to ensure military service members and veterans have access to the care and mental health services they need in our state. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out: SAVE Hotline: (617) 210-5743 Monday–Friday | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then Press 1 Available 24/7, 365 days a year for service members, veterans, and their loved ones. @FriendsMilitary @staterepjoe

Congratulations to Ian McNeil, recent Duxbury High graduate, on his track victories in the MIAA Division 4 State Championship. He won both the 100 meter dash and the 200 meter dash this spring. His performances in both events established new school records. Ian has been a

standout student athlete throughout his time at Duxbury High School in both track and football. He has made consistent improvements throughout his sports seasons and has shown that hard work truly does pay off. Thank you to Ian and his family for coming up to the

State House last week so he could be recognized. I was more than happy to present him with an official Senate citation for all of his accomplishments. Congratulations, enjoy the rest of your summer, and good luck with your future endeavors!

Yesterday I attended this year’s Duxbury Public Schools Retirement Celebration. Joined by State Representative Ken Sweezey, we recognized a remarkable group of individuals who have dedicated decades of their lives to our schools and students. Your hard work has touched

generations and does not go unnoticed. Thank you to Ann Kalous, Elizabeth Caffrey, Carla Boyle, Mary Powers, Priscilla Nissi, Priscilla Richardson, Margi Malone, and Shaun Kelly for the mark that you have made here in Duxbury. Your presence will be deeply missed.

Lori Aldrich, who was set to retire at the end of this school year, sadly passed away in March. I was honored to recognize her family, who were in attendance for her. Thank you for everything you’ve given to our community on the South Shore. We wish you a relaxing retirement.

The weather was perfect for the 30th Annual Scituate St. Patricks Day Parade, We Love A Parade yesterday. The turnout was fantastic and I enjoyed seeing many familiar faces come out to celebrate. This parade is one of my favorite annual events on the South Shore.

Thank you to everyone who marched with our team. Even with the snow delay, there was still a massive crowd of thousands ready to keep the Saint Patrick's Day festivities going. This was worth the wait.

I appreciate all that made this day possible, and our office is already excited for next year!

Firefighter Safety Equipment Grants have been awarded for FY26 to Cohasset, Duxbury, Hingham, Marshfield, Norwell, Scituate, and Weymouth's Fire Departments. Fire departments will use this funding to purchase a wide variety of equipment that will improve the livelihood of the

men and women who work hard for our community safety. Over the years our local departments have greatly benefited from this grant and were able to purchase important tools to use on the job such as thermal imaging cameras, portable radios, hazardous gas detectors, ice rescue

suits, and personnel accountability systems. I am thankful for the work our fire departments do every day and it is essential that we keep our public safety staff protected.

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the DDS Citizen Advisory Board Spring legislative breakfast at the Duxbury Library. The theme this year was “Given the Opportunity” and showcased several people who have found community, employment and fulfillment thanks to their

easy access to local businesses and community resources. Participants gain hands-on experience in various work settings, from retail to office work and our dedicated staff provides job coaching, skill development, and ongoing support. I have a personal connection to Launch,

with my cousin Brendan being involved in the program. I'm happy with all the success he's found within it.

I am honored to have received the 2026 Legislator of the Year Award from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees. I was proud to accept this recognition yesterday during MASC’s annual Day on the Hill. MASC plays a vital role in elevating the voices of school

priority. I am grateful for the strong partnerships my office has built with public school systems across the eight towns I represent, and I remain committed to continuing this work to support our students, educators, and communities. Thank you for this recognition. I will

continue to fight to ensure every student, educator, and community has the tools and resources needed to thrive.