Listen to the full meeting
On November 10, 2026, the City of Fall River and the Department of Veterans’ Services held a remembrance ceremony at Miller Green honoring Corporal David Miller, a Fall River native and World War II veteran of the United States Army Air Forces. Miller survived the Bataan Death March following the surrender of allied forces in the Philippines in April 1942, but died in captivity as a prisoner of war in July 1943 at the age of 26. The ceremony also observed the 251st birthday of the United States Marine Corps.
Director of Veterans’ Services Talos Farris led the ceremony, which featured an opening prayer by Father Rob Nemcovich and remarks from Mayor Paul E. Coogan emphasizing the significance of recognizing local patriots and Veterans Day commemorations across the city. Community advocate Monica Souza spoke about Corporal Miller’s youth in Fall River’s South End and recognized longtime organizer Richard Urban for preserving Miller’s memory over the years. Farris also highlighted Fall River native and U.S. Navy Petty Officer Third Class Will Cruz Rivera, who honored Miller by participating in the annual Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
The ceremony concluded with the ceremonial laying of a memorial wreath by Monica Souza, a moment of silence for prisoners of war and service members who perished in captivity, the playing of Taps, and a benediction delivered by Reverend Andy Stinson.
Topics discussed
- 0:02 · Opening Remarks and Marine Corps Birthday Recognition
Veterans’ Services Director Talos Farris welcomes attendees, introduces dignitaries, and commemorates the 251st birthday of the United States Marine Corps. - 0:02 · Remarks by Mayor Paul E. Coogan
Mayor Paul E. Coogan speaks on the importance of local Veterans Day memorials, acknowledging elected officials and recognizing Corporal Miller’s service. - 2:18 · Opening Prayer
Father Rob Nemcovich delivers the opening prayer honoring Corporal David Miller, POWs, and fallen service members. - 8:31 · Tribute to Corporal David Miller and Richard Urban
Monica Souza reflects on Corporal David Miller’s upbringing in the South End and commends Richard Urban for keeping Miller’s memory alive. - 10:08 · Recognition of Petty Officer Third Class Will Cruz Rivera
Talos Farris recognizes Fall River native Petty Officer Third Class Will Cruz Rivera for marching in the Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sands Missile Range. - 12:20 · Wreath Placement, Moment of Silence, and Taps
A memorial wreath is laid at the monument by Monica Souza, followed by a moment of silence and the playing of Taps. - 17:31 · Closing Prayer and Concluding Remarks
Reverend Andy Stinson delivers the benediction, followed by final remarks from Talos Farris thanking attendees and participants.