TYLER VARGAS-ANDREWS // UNITED STATES MARINES
Tyler Vargas-Andrews is a former United States Marine Corps Sergeant and combat Veteran who served in multiple deployments, including in the Middle East. He gained national recognition as one of the wounded survivors of the August 26, 2021, suicide bombing at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, during the U.S. withdrawal. Vargas-Andrews sustained severe injuries in the attack, which claimed the lives of 13 US Service Members and over 170 Afghan civilians.
Following his recovery, he became an outspoken advocate for accountability regarding the withdrawal, sharing his experiences and testimony before Congress. He has since dedicated himself to supporting fellow Veterans, raising awareness about their challenges, and improving policies related to military operations and Veteran care.
His resilience and leadership inspire many within and beyond the military and Veteran communities.
ALLISON EMOND // GOLD STAR WIFE OF SFC ERIC M. EMOND
Allison “Allie” Emond is the Gold Star Wife of Sergeant First Class Eric Michael Emond, a distinguished U.S. Army Special Forces soldier who was tragically killed in action on November 27, 2018, in Afghanistan. Together, they have three daughters: Lucy, Ruby, and Emilia.
Following Eric’s passing, Allie became deeply involved with Massachusetts Fallen Heroes (MFH), an organization that Eric co-founded to honor and support service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during the War on Terror. In April 2019, less than five months after Eric’s passing, she ran the Boston Marathon in his honor, raising funds to support MFH’s mission. The following month, she returned to the Annual Patriot Week Gala to share Eric’s story and reflect on the journey she and her children have navigated since his death in Afghanistan. She described the experience as deeply emotional, as it brought her back to the city where they had built their life together.
We are honored to welcome Allie back to address our Gala attendees, where she will share a powerful message of courage and perseverance. Through her continued dedication to supporting fellow Gold Star Families, she carries Eric’s legacy of service, sacrifice, and commitment to those who have given their all.
STEVEN P. KELLY // TIMBERLINE CONSTRUCTION & TCI
Sergeant First Class Eric Emond “Wicked Awesome” Award
Steven P. Kelly is the Chief Executive Officer of Timberline Construction Corporation, TCI – Timberline Communications Inc and Tenney Mountain, bringing over 30 years of entrepreneurial and industry experience to the role.
A steadfast supporter of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes (MFH) since its inception, Steven has played a pivotal advisory role in the organization’s growth. His leadership was instrumental in the early design and development of the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial in the Seaport. As the brother of two exceptional MFH co-founders, his dedication to the mission has been deeply personal. Under his guidance and with Timberline’s support, MFH has expanded its initiatives, including the success of the Sample Sale fundraiser, whichoriginated at Timberline’s Canton headquarters in 2013.
A proud patriot, Steven is deeply committed to supporting Veterans and Gold Star Families. His unwavering dedication to those who have served embodies the values of MFH, and his contributions continue to strengthen its impact. His recognition is a testament to his selflessness, a sentiment that would undoubtedly make Eric Emond proud.
DR. INDRA SANDAL // VHA Innovation Ecosystem
SFC Jared C. Monti Medal of Honor Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award
The SFC Jared C. Monti Medal of Honor Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award stands as a tribute to the unparalleled valor and selflessness embodied by Sergeant First Class Jared C. Monti during his heroic actions in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan, on June 21, 2006. Recipients of this esteemed award epitomize Sergeant First Class Monti’s unwavering commitment to duty, displaying conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the face of adversity.
Given to individuals or organizations who go above and beyond their call of duty to support Veterans and Gold Star Families, this award recognizes those who, like Sergeant First Class Monti, demonstrate extraordinary selflessness. Through their actions, they honor Sergeant First Class Monti’s legacy and inspire others with their unwavering dedication to serving others, embodying the highest ideals of military service and selfless devotion.
CHARLES PAPPALARDO // Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Captain Jennifer Harris Award
The Captain Jennifer Harris Award commemorates the extraordinary life of Captain Jennifer J. Harris, the first female pilot in the renowned Purple Foxes Squadron. Known for her courage and dedication, Captain Harris exemplified service both in and out of uniform.
This award honors individuals who, like Captain Harris, demonstrate exceptional meritorious conduct in supporting Gold Star Families and military Veterans. Their selflessness and dedication mirror Captain Harris’s legacy of compassion and service, inspiring others to embody the highest ideals of sacrifice and commitment.
BRIAN POTTER // TG Gallagher
Christine Devlin Gold Star Family Support Award
The Christine Devlin Gold Star Family Support Award honors individuals or organizations for exceptional service to Massachusetts Gold Star Families. Christine Devlin, a Gold Star Mother, lost her son, Lance Corporal Michael J. Devlin, in the 1983 Beirut bombing. For four decades, she has been a tireless advocate, serving as President of the Gold Star Mothers of America for Massachusetts and Rhode Island and founding the Massachusetts Beirut Memorial in 1992.
A mentor to Mass Fallen Heroes, Christine played a pivotal role in our formation, guiding our mission to support Gold Star families. Her unwavering dedication to remembrance and advocacy is truly inspiring, and we are forever grateful.
JOSHUA DINNEEN // Blue Mantis
Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer Kevin A. Houston Award
The Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer Kevin A. Houston Award honors the courageous service and ultimate sacrifice of Chief Petty Officer Kevin A. Houston, a distinguished Navy SEAL renowned for his valor and dedication. Chief Petty Officer Houston’s exemplary leadership, highlighted by his heroic actions during combat engagements in Afghanistan, embodies the highest ideals of military service.
Recipients of this prestigious award exemplify Chief Petty Officer Houston’s selfless commitment to Veterans and Gold Star Families, leaving a profound and lasting impact on their lives. Their exceptional service honors Chief Petty Officer Houston’s memory and upholds the distinguished traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Welcome to the 2025 Patriot Week Gala
Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM
Venue: Encore Boston Harbor Hotel
Address: 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
We are excited to have you join us for this special evening at the Encore Boston Harbor Hotel as we celebrate the spirit of patriotism and honor our fallen heroes.
Arrival & Parking Information
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Complimentary Valet Service:
When you arrive at Encore, complimentary valet service will be available. Simply let the valet know you are attending the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Gala, and we’ll take care of the rest. -
Self-Parking:
If you prefer not to valet, you are welcome to park in the complimentary parking garage at your convenience.
When you arrive, please follow the black line to check-in. Our staff will direct you from there. We look forward to celebrating with you!
