LYNN — A monument honoring longtime CIA operative and Lynn native Richard G. Fecteau will be rededicated on April 30 at 1 p.m. at the corner of Maple Street and Euclid Avenue.
City officials, veterans groups, and representatives from Boston University are expected to attend the ceremony, which recognizes Fecteau’s remarkable service and resilience.
Fecteau, a Lynn Classical High School and Boston University graduate, was captured during a covert CIA mission in 1952 and held in a Chinese prison for nearly 20 years. After his release in December 1971, he returned to Boston University and worked as assistant athletic director until his retirement in 1989. Throughout his life, Fecteau has largely avoided the public spotlight, but his story has become an enduring symbol of sacrifice, loyalty, and quiet heroism.
The monument rededication is being coordinated by the City of Lynn, the Lance Corporal Bradley Campus Memorial Scholarship Committee, and the Lynn Veterans Council. The updated site will include two flagpoles and a mounted display board recounting Fecteau’s story. A photo of the monument is available through the organizers, and the installation is located just a block away from the Cuffe-McGinn Funeral Home at 157 Maple St., where parking will be available for attendees.
Charlie Griffin of the Lynn Veterans Council, who helped organize the rededication, said the event is an opportunity to ensure future generations understand Fecteau’s unique place in history.
“Richard’s story is one of quiet strength,” Griffin said. “What he endured, and how he chose to live afterward, speaks volumes. This monument helps preserve that legacy here in Lynn.”
Fecteau’s mission, conducted with fellow CIA operative John T. Downey, ended when their plane was shot down over Chinese territory. For years, the U.S. government denied the true nature of the operation, and Fecteau remained imprisoned until diplomatic efforts secured his release nearly two decades later. He never spoke publicly at length about his time in captivity; instead, he returned to his alma mater and focused on serving others.
The rededication ceremony will be rescheduled to Friday, May 2, in case of rain.
To support the cost of the monument and its improvements, donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/f/richard-fecteau-memorial-dedication. For questions, contact Charlie Griffin at (781) 789-3527.
