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Nahant Veterans' Services Officer Jon Lazar receives a round of applause during a ceremony honoring his retirement on Tuesday. (Spenser Hasak) Purchase this photo

Nahant salutes Lazar upon his retirement

Deyscha Smith

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NAHANT — A celebration was held at Town Hall in Nahant on Tuesday in honor of John Lazar, who has served as Nahant’s Veteran Service Officer for a decade.

Lazar, who retired on Jan. 28, was spotlighted at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting earlier this week for his commitment to the veterans in the community. In her opening remarks, Town Administrator Alison Nieto reiterated the sentiment she made then on how much they will miss Lazar.

“I’m very sad to see John leaving us, but I know that he’s looking forward to retirement and some time off and seeing his daughter in San Diego,” said Nieto.

Rep. Sean Reid, who says he has known Lazar “for many years,” and Sen. Brendan Crighton then presented Lazar with a citation, signed by the House of Representatives and the Speaker of the House, and shared a few words on the impact Lazar has made. 

“All the work you’ve done in the community, not only through this capacity, but through your various roles, we just wanted to take a moment to congratulate you,” Reid said.

Crighton added, “I started in office as a state rep. out here a decade ago, right around the same time as you, so our time services coincided, and you’ve been a tremendous resource, not only for my team, but for everyone in the town, our veterans, but the entire community celebrates and thanks you for all you do. Hope you come back and visit.” 

Afterwards, American Legion Post 215 Commander Dennis Treece presented Lazar with a certificate of appreciation for his commitment to the work he’s done. 

“This role requires patience, integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to veterans, and I know that John has, that John has exemplified these qualities throughout his tenure, and we salute him for his efforts that have made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless veterans and their families,” Treece said.  

American Legion Auxiliary Post 215 President Esther Johnson also presented Lazar with a certificate of appreciation and had kind remarks, noting: “Everything you’ve done quietly for individual veterans over the years, and I know many times you get phone calls late at night, just quietly taking care of helping different veterans in this town. And it’s very much appreciated. I personally was so moved with the job you did for the Purple Heart ceremony in your group this summer. That was just incredible. So we thank you all.”

Then, Selectman Chair Rob Tibbo presented Lazar with a citation, on behalf of the Board of Selectmen, and extended their “sincere appreciation” for his service.

“The amount of work that you put in, the number of people that you’ve helped, the amount of gratitude that you have in this town is really phenomenal, John. I can only thank you, as one of the Board of Selectmen and as a resident of Nahant, thank you so much for all of the time and all of your efforts. We are eternally grateful for your efforts, and you will be very difficult to replace,” Tibbo said.

Finally, an emotional Lazar was the last to speak, and when he did, he spoke of wanting to see the work he’s done be continued. “I’m happy we’ve done so many great things,” he said, adding, “I put too much time in it, way more than I should have, but Allison’s leading the charge now, and I hope everything comes out well again. Man, thank you from the bottom of my heart.” 

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