Thank you Veterans! 

Originally known as Armistice Day to honor the living veterans of World War 1, Veterans Day has transformed into a holiday that celebrates all those who served their country.

Southie Veterans Project

The Michael J. Perkins Post in South Boston has organized the Southie Veterans Project where they highlight veterans from South Boston through photos and facts. You can check it out on their twitter feed! They are up to over 250 veterans! If you have know a veteran that you’d like to see featured, you can DM the Perkins Post via twitter or email [email protected]! 

Remembering Michael J. Perkins on Veterans Day

If you get your coffee at PS Gourmet, or wait at the traffic light at the intersection of where East and West Broadway meet with Dorchester Street, have you ever wondered why it’s called Perkins Square.  Well, here’s the reason!

Michael J Perkins was a war hero who received the nation’s highest award for bravery, the Congressional Medal of Honor.  A South Boston native, he lived on West Seventh Street until he enlisted in the Army in 1916.  While stationed in France, Perkins was involved in combat with German Troops in 1918.  With a knife in one hand and a grenade in the other, he crawled alone to the area where German soldiers fired machine guns.  Perkins single-handedly killed and wounded the enemy, subdued seven machine guns and took 25 prisoners.  Suffering an injury to his arm, he was ordered to the infirmary.  The ambulance that was taking Perkins to the hospital was struck by a shell and all occupants were killed instantly.

In 1920, as part of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade ceremony, the intersection of Broadway and Dorchester Street was dedicated  to Michael J. “Mickey” Perkins.

So on this Veterans Day – we thanks Michael Perkins – a war hero from Southie!  We also thank the brave men and women who serve and have served our country – and their families for the sacrifices they have made!