State Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield, has returned home following a six-month deployment serving with the Massachusetts National Guard on the southwestern border of the United States. Velis was deployed in late October. During that time, his office remained operational and continued to assist with constituent inquiries and Senate matters, according to a statement.
“It’s an incredible feeling to be back with my family and our community. I’m eager to get back to work ahead of the Senate’s budget debates later this month to secure vital funding for our district and to fight for the issues at the top of mind of so many residents,” Velis said.
“I am grateful to my entire Senate team who has gone above and beyond over the past few months serving our district and ensuring that I was kept up to date on all matters locally and up on Beacon Hill,” he continued.
In the statement, the Senator’s office noted that Velis is unable to share further details regarding the deployment. Included is a video posted to the senator’s Facebook account showing Velis returning home at an airport, embracing his son and greeting his wife.
The caption of the post reads, “Nothing compares to this moment: reuniting with my 4-year-old son and wife at the airport. Truly blessed beyond words to be back where I belong, HOME! For the past 6 months I’ve had the honor of serving alongside some of the finest and most dedicated professionals I’ve ever worked with as part of Joint Task Force Southern Border, an experience I won’t ever forget. Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout this deployment.”
