The Friends Volunteer Spotlight- March 2026

Marvin is in our Volunteer Spotlight for March 2026!

Marvin is not only serving on the Board of Directors for The Friends of the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam but also volunteers at most of the events.  Marvin has also been a chapel and office volunteer at the MA Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam since 2003 and a member of the Firing Detail since 2013. In fact, Marvin has been present for over 12,000 interment ceremonies!

On November 26, 2022 Marvin was presented the Game Changer Award by the Springfield Thunderbirds for his service as a cemetery volunteer.

On November 11, 2024 Governor Maura Healey presented Marvin with the Captain Thomas J. Hudner, Jr. Valor Award for his work, devotion, and commitment to the veterans community in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Hats off to Marvin for the work he does for the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam and The Friends!

See Marvin’s full bio at: https://www.agawamfriends.org/marvin-h

When and how did you get involved with the cemetery?

After retiring in February 2001, I searched for other ways to keep busy (there is only so many times I can paint the living room!).  In March 2023,  I read an article in the Springfield newspaper that the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam was conducting an Adult Military/Veteran Enrichment Program one day a week for 8 weeks and I knew I wanted to participate.  After completing the course, I became a volunteer at the cemetery assisting in the Chapel.  Currently I assist in the Chapel on Tuesdays and Volunteer Firing Detail on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.  I have been a part of 12,000 committal services at the cemetery. 

What are your activities with The Friends and what do they involve?

In 2016 I was asked to become a member of The Friend's organization.  Currently I oversee merchandise for The Friends and attend and volunteer at as many fundraisers and activities as possible.  

What’s the most rewarding part about volunteering for The Friends and the cemetery?

What is the most rewarding for me is working with the many great people, past and present in The Friends organization, cemetery staff, funeral directors and other volunteers.

How does The Friends make our community a better place?

The Friends is helping make the cemetery a better place and brings people in the community together at the events.  It is an honor to assist in making the cemetery the final resting place for our veterans, their spouses and dependent children.

Interested in volunteering with us? New volunteers are always welcome!