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FIA-NE marks America's 250th with veterans and tree planting initiative
Massachusetts state Rep. Kate Donaghue attended as chief guest alongside several community leaders.
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Staff Reporter - Wed, 01, Jul 2026
- 11:24 EDT
- 39
Glimpses of the celebration / FIA New England
Hundreds of community members, veterans, elected officials and families gathered in Northborough on June 27 as the Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England celebrated the nation's 250th Independence Day.
The organization paid tributes to military veterans with a "250 Fruit-Bearing Trees Initiative," under which 250 trees will be planted to commemorate each year of American independence.
The first tree was planted by 95-year-old Frank Brown, a World War II U.S. Navy veteran and longtime Northborough businessman.
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Brown, who was recognized for his military service and decades of community involvement, said planting the trees represented a lasting investment in future generations.
"I fought for this country many years ago, and it is a blessing to see this July 4th celebration today," Brown said. "Planting these trees is not just about honoring the past — it is about giving something alive and lasting to the future generation."
The program opened with the U.S. national anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance before honoring veterans, including Brown, Max Strickland, a U.S. Navy veteran serving as adjutant of American Legion Post 234 and senior vice commander for District 4, and veteran Richard B. Nieber.
Children later released 250 silver balloons into the sky, symbolizing the country's 250 years of independence.
The celebration also featured cultural dance performances and a musical concert by Arun Verma, Priti and singer Arun Rashtogi, followed by a community meal.
Massachusetts state Rep. Kate Donaghue attended as chief guest alongside several community leaders. The office of Gov. Maura Healey presented Citations of Special Recognition to Lana Israel and Kadian A. James for community service and leadership.
FIA New England president Abhishek Singh said the anniversary was an opportunity to reaffirm a commitment to public service and environmental stewardship through the tree-planting campaign.
Community leader Subu Kota called it "what true patriotism looks like — honoring veterans, engaging youth, celebrating culture, and giving back to the environment."
Anahita Dua, a vascular surgeon and Director of the Peripheral Artery Disease Center at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, added: “Today's celebration, including the planting of 250 fruitbearing trees, is a meaningful symbol of our commitment to giving back and building a stronger future together."
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