LYNN — Retired Lynn police officer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Charlie Griffin has recently been elected president of the Lynn Veterans Council, a role he hadn’t sought but is honored to take on.
Griffin, a Marblehead native, joined the Marines in 1977 after high school. After completing his service, he moved to Lynn around 1980 and worked as a security officer at General Electric in Wilmington. In 1987, he became a Lynn police officer, a position he held for 33 years.
“My grandparents raised me to believe deeply in selfless service,” Griffin said. “After serving my country in the Marines and my community as a police officer, this feels like a natural next step — another opportunity to help others.”
A longtime volunteer with the Lynn Veterans Council, Griffin had no plans to step into leadership. However, when the former president stepped down, fellow council members nominated and elected Griffin to take the helm.
The Lynn Veterans Council is a volunteer-led organization that supports local veterans and their families, organizes memorial events, and raises scholarship funds. The council includes roles such as president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, director, chaplain, and sergeant at arms. Griffin emphasized that success depends on teamwork.
“None of us can do this alone. It takes all of us working together to make things happen.”
One of Griffin’s biggest undertakings as president will be leading efforts for the North Shore Veterans & First Responders Parade, set for Sunday, September 20, 2026, with a rain date of September 27, 2026.
“We’re planning far ahead because this parade will be significant,” Griffin explained. “It’s going to be special because it not only honors our nation’s veterans but also recognizes the bravery of first responders, especially around the 9/11 anniversary.”
The parade will commemorate America’s 250th birthday and the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, honoring both veterans and first responders. The parade route will start at Centre Street, proceed down Western Avenue, turn onto Chestnut Street, and end at Manning Field, where a reviewing stand will be set up at Lucia Lighting.
Beyond the parade, Griffin is focused on strengthening the council’s community outreach and veteran recognition efforts. The council is actively working on scholarships honoring veterans and other Lynn community members who have served the nation.
“Every time someone says their name, it’s like they’re still here with us,” Griffin said. “It’s a powerful way to honor and remember their sacrifices.”
To fund these initiatives, the council is planning fundraising efforts, including canning drives, raffles, and community events. All members serve on a volunteer basis.
As Griffin takes on his new leadership role, he encourages Lynn residents to get involved.
“This council can’t succeed alone. It’s a community effort, and we’ll need everyone’s help to make these initiatives happen.”
The Lynn Veterans Council is actively seeking volunteers, marchers, and sponsors to help make the event a success. Individuals, businesses, or organizations interested in contributing can contact the council at [email protected] or reach out to David Solimine Sr., chairman of the parade, at (781) 953-4831.
