WORCESTER—The city honors one of its fallen service members this weekend with a square dedication in memory of Private First Class John D. “Jacky” Kelleher, a Korean War veteran killed in combat nearly 75 years ago.
The ceremony, hosted by the City’s Veterans Services Division, is happening on Sunday, Aug. 24, at 12:30 p.m. at the corner of June Street and Hartshorn Avenue. City officials, Korean War representatives and members of the Kelleher family are expected to attend, according to the announcement.
Kelleher, a Worcester native who lived at 18 Hartshorn Drive, served with the U.S. Army’s 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, E Company. He was killed in action on Aug. 25, 1950, during the Battle of the Naktong Bulge in South Korea, according to the Korean War Project Remembrance website.
Born in 1931, Kelleher was just 19 years old when he was killed. Records list him as the son of William Henry Kelleher and Catherine Kelleher of Worcester. Known to friends and family as “Jacky,” he was among the early U.S. casualties in the Korean War, which erupted in June 1950.
The square dedication permanently marks his name at the intersection near his former home, a symbolic gesture ensuring his sacrifice is remembered locally. Worcester has a long tradition of honoring its service members through memorial squares and plaques across the city.
City officials said the event provides a moment for both the community and Kelleher’s family to reflect on the personal cost of war and the enduring legacy of local men and women who did not return home.
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