Charles River's Flagpole Honors Neill Osgood's 33 Years of Selfless Service

Posted by June Szretter on Jun 23, 2021

The Rotary Club of Charles River held a flagpole-dedication ceremony on June 10 at John J. Lane Park in Natick, at to honor the late Neill Osgood, who had been a club member and treasurer for 33 years, for his volunteer service as a Rotarian. He passed away in November 2019.

The Charles River club’s District Grant project was started in April 2020, to dedicate an American Flagpole and memorial stone to Neill. He was a very active volunteer who exemplified the Rotary motto, Service Above Self.

Neill served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He was recognized four times by Rotary International as a Paul Harris Fellow, a recognition that acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.

The 35-foot-tall flagpole adds significant value to JJ Lane Park, a state/town park enjoyed by families in the area. The dedication stone with the RI emblem honors Neill for his service as a Rotarian, and indicates the importance of Rotary volunteer work in the community. The flag-dedication ceremony was planned by Paul Carew, a Charles River member who is director of Natick's Veterans Services.

Club Past President Hank Szretter led the Pledge of Allegiance and salute to the flag. Gary Hoyt, also a past president, read a prayer he wrote, and remembered Neill. Club member Paul Carew read a proclamation in honor of Neill’s accomplishments and community involvement. Club President June Szretter (shown, left) spoke about the club’s District Grant project and Neill’s volunteer work. And, Jon Fetherston, incoming and a past president, remembered Neill and his selfless service for more than three decades.

The flagpole dedication in honor of Neill was recorded by Natick Pegasus. To watch the 36-minute video of the ceremony, either click here or on the image at left.

The Charles River club thanks all of its members, the District Foundation, and those who supported and contributed to this District Grant project.

For more information, contact Charles River President June Szretter at junesz@mac.com.