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AUBURN, Mass. – Auburn High School won’t be renamed for the late Maj. David Brodeur, but the military hero who died in Afghanistan will be honored in another way.
The Auburn School Committee voted at its meeting Wednesday to dedicate part of the high school’s property as a Brodeur square and monument. Although the Major David Brodeur Foundation was hoping for a renaming of the school, it accepted this decision.
“It wasn’t our first choice, but the recommendation does an adequate job of memorializing and paying tribute to David, so we are happy,” said Tim Morse, the foundation’s president.
The School Committee voted to name part of the rear area of the high school “Major David Brodeur Square” or “Way.” This is the area where a tree is planted in honor of the fallen Air Force officer.
Auburn Street may get a marker as “Major David Brodeur Square” or “Way.”
“This would help designate this area more clearly to guests and would have his name on the street for great visibility,” said the Major David Brodeur Naming Subcommittee recommendation. “To bring greater prominence to this area, a monument could be erected that details some of Major Brodeur’s accomplishments, both as a student of Auburn High, a soldier and a family man.”
The cost of the monument and marker could range from $250 to $2,500. If a sign were erected at the back entrance to the high school, the cost would be $50 to $200.
Veterans are also willing to visit this square along with other Auburn squares in honor of fallen servicemen and women before Memorial Day.
“David’s memory is an inspiration for generations of students,” said School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Lourie, who presented the recommendation. “David exemplified the finest traditions of the United States military: education, honor, commitment, courage and bravery. His sacrifice and memory will never be forgotten.”
The foundation’s next step is talking to the School Committee about design and placement of the memorial, Morse said.
“Once we know what that will be, then we can start talking about funding,” Morse said. “The fundraising is going to be the responsibility of the foundation. So once we know what the memorial will ultimately be, then we can start planning fundraising events to raise some capital to get that off the ground.”
Brodeur, a 1994 graduate of Auburn High School, died April 27, 2011, in Kabul, Afghanistan, at the age of 34. Among his commendations and awards are the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal and Combat Action Medal.
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