story & photo
by Christopher Annino
(l-r back) Patrick Welsh, Brenda Nixon, Ruth Welsh, James Welsh, Michaele Caro, Nolan Nixon, Jeff Nixon and Groton Mayor Dennis Popp gather for a photo with (l-r front) past recipient Earle A. Wlliams, 2004, and William “Bill” Welsh, 2009.
On August 7th at the 25th Annual Groton City Day, held at Washington Park, the Jacqueline B. Nixon Community Service Award was given to a William “Bill” Welsh, Mystic. Bill goes above and beyond, volunteering his time for the community.
Six years ago, Jacqueline “Jackie” B. Nixon was nominated for a community service award for her efforts with a food pantry that she operated out at her residence for 24years. Before she could receive the award she passed away from cancer. To eternalize and honor her, Groton Utilities named the community service award after her. Earle A. Williams was the first to receive the award.
“I am very blessed that Jackie’s memory still lives on through this award. It has meant a great deal to see people volunteer their time in the community,” said Nolan Nixon, widow of Jackie.
Past recipients of the award include: Robert “Bob” Leeney, 2005; E. Marion “Mimi” Orkney, 2006; Lillian “Lil” Hansen, 2007; and Sarah Stanley, 2008 .
Bill volunteers his time at several organizations. He was on the board of directors for seven years and the president in 1999 for the Mystic Valley Chapter of AARP. He assists senior citizens with health insurance with the State of CT CHOICES Program.
And due to Bill’s tireless work with The Wounded Warrior Fund, clothes are provided for injured service men and women overseas.
Bill’s latest endeavor is becoming involved with the development of Groton Senior Center’s TRIAD Program, which educates senior citizens on safety.
In his acceptance speech, he thanked Carol Pratt, Mary Jo Riley, Groton Senior Center, his wife Ruth, and grandson Patrick Welsh, for his additional support with The Wounded Warrior Fund.
Bill is retired from the U. S. Navy. He served in WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His career spanned 26 years, mostly in submarines.
“The best advice ever given to me was learning the buddy system in the Navy. Always watch out for your neighbor and help them when they need it,” said Bill.
Posted on August 19th, 2009 | category: Featured Articles
