Charlie Baker Organizes Appreciation Event

Thomas Kelley served 41 years, combined, as a naval officer and Secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services.

So late last year when Charlie Baker of Swampscott heard that Kelley was leaving state government, Baker made a mental note to be there for the event that honored Kelley’s service. 

Later, after Baker learned there was no such event planned, he planned it.

“People like Tom Kelley deserve to be thanked,” said Baker.

The response to the event has been huge, Baker said.

 Kelley, 71, of Somerville, received the Medal of Honor for putting his life on the line to save fellow soldiers during the Vietnam War. The medal is the highest military decoration awarded by the government.

On Friday, at the Hynes Convention Center, guests will include members of the state’s congressional delegation, Gov. Deval Patrick and Mayor Thomas Menino.

Speakers will include comedian Lenny Clarke.

The evening will have the added benefit of raising money for the Massachusetts Soldiers Legacy Fund 

The fund provides education grants for the children of Massachusetts service members who were killed while deployed on Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, Baker said.

UMass Amherst graduate Peter Trovato founded the MSLF, Baker said.

Fund spokeswoman Colleen White said the organization has raised more than $3.7 million for qualifying children. 

Of the 110 Massachusetts casualties in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, 42 of them were parents and they left behind 69 children, she said.

Baker, the GOP gubernatorial candidate in the 2010 race against incumbent Deval Patrick, said the Kelley event is fitting and worthwhile.

“The whole night is going to be a win-win, a great night, recognizing an American hero,” Baker said.

The Kelley thank you takes place on his birthday.

Tickets are $100 and can be purchased by visiting https://www.fundly.com/mslf or by sending a check made payable to “The Massachusetts Soldiers Legacy Fund,” memo line “Tom Kelley,” to PO Box 962061, Milk Street Post Office, Boston, MA 02196.