LYNN — Bill Dandreo, of Swampscott, was honored as the 2025 recipient of the Lynn Veterans Council Patriot Award on Tuesday.
The annual award is given to an individual who has done “incredible” work in the veteran community. Dandreo, who owns Dandreo Bros. General Contractors & Masonry in Lynn, has volunteered and donated to Veterans Council projects, including the Jared Raymond Memorial, the Bradley Campus Memorial, the Richard Fecteau Memorial, and local parades.
“It is my honor to be involved with veterans. I’m happy they allow me. I’m not a veteran myself, but it’s a way of giving back. I’m very passionate about doing everything I can for them,” Dandreo said during the surprise award event in Mayor Jared Nicholson’s office.
Dandreo added, “I didn’t expect this, but I’m very appreciative of everything they’re acknowledging today, and I’m hopeful to continue to help out where I can.”
Nicholson and Ward 1 Councilor Pete Meaney also offered mayoral and city council citations at the event.
“You can physically see a manifestation of your hard work and support for the veterans and the memorials around the city,” Nicholson said. “We appreciate that dedication, the quality of the work, and the values that stand behind it.”
Meaney, a U.S. Navy veteran and Veterans Council board member, expressed his gratitude for Dandreo’s commitment to serving local veterans.
“It’s well deserved,” Meaney said.
Veterans Council President Charlie Griffin explained why Dandreo was chosen as the recipient of the award this year.
“He never hesitates to help out, and he always takes on challenges and gets the job done,” Griffin said. “He doesn’t just talk the talk; he’s very involved. For many years now, he’s been a driving force in recognizing veterans.”
He added, “Everyone’s been so impressed by his projects. He doesn’t want any pats on the back, but it’s a big deal to us. He’s done an excellent job, and we wanted to let him know publicly that we appreciate him.”
Director of Lynn-Swampscott Veterans’ Services Mike Sweeney shared similar praise.
“He’s been stellar with taking care and honoring veterans and their families since I’ve known him. I couldn’t think of a better, more deserving person for the award,” Sweeney said.
