Holbrook War Hero: Paul J. Surette
March 31, 2017
Holbrook students visited the Vietnam Wall to honor Paul Joseph Surette PFC during their trip to Washington, D.C. in November. Paul Surrette was born on December 10, 1946 to Raymond and Alice Surrette of Holbrook, MA. He graduated from Holbrook High School in 1964, where he had been a member of the track and cross country teams. He enlisted in the United States Army at nineteen years old in September of 1965. He underwent training at Fort Dix, Fort Gordon, and Fort Benning and was assigned to Vietnam in April of 1966. He was killed in action three months later on June 29, 1966.
Paul Surette was the only Holbrook resident to be killed during the Vietnam War. Holbrook’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 9813 was also dedicated in his honor. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his courageous actions during the war. The Purple Heart is awarded to soldiers who have been wounded or killed in battle. The Bronze Star is the fourth-highest individual military medal award. It can be awarded for individual acts of heroism, merit, and commendable service in the combat zone.
Paul Surette is a local hero who made a tremendous sacrifice. He past away just fifty years ago, as the only Holbrook resident to die in the Vietnam War. His legacy is important and will not be forgotten.
Richard Rodel • Sep 21, 2017 at 12:49 pm
I was very close to Paul when we were very young. He was 1 year ahead of me in school – and in high school – although still friends – he and I did not hang around a lot. The last time I saw Paul was at Hollywood Lanes in Braintree Ma – I hung around there a lot and worked there part time – Paul was home on leave shortly before going to Vietnam – he was there on a date bowling with his girlfriend. It was so good to see him – I will never forget that day!! Although we were not close friends at that time – it is a very special memory for me. God Bless his mother and father, Alice and Ray- his sister Alice and his brother Raymond.
It has been over 50 years ago, but I still remember that day so much and I will always remember Paul – he was such a good person – I only wish we had spent more time together. I know his parents, Alice and Ray are gone now, so are my parents who were very close to them. I am hoping his brother and sister – Raymond and Alice see this comment and know how very special I think Paul was as a person! God Bless Paul!!