Page 2 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, November 14, 2025 World War II Marine veteran turns 100, honored by federal and local leaders F orestdale Park, a Volunteers of America Massachusetts (VOAMASS) Assisted Living and Memory Support Community in Malden, celebrated the 100th birthday of a World War II veteran, Carmen LaPorta, on Friday, November 7, with a short presentation featuring prominent local and federal public servants. LaPorta’s family, fellow Forestdale residents, U.S. Congresswoman Katherine Clark, Malden Mayor Gary Christenson and VOAMASS President Charles Gagnon were all in attendance to thank Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 LaPorta for his service in World War II, where he served as a radio operator in the Headquarters Squadron Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Forestdale Park Senior Living Executive Director Sarah Starkweather shared Carmen’s life and accomplishments, presenting him with a Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor bestowed upon members of the Forestdale Park assisted living community and its sister Senior Living Residences (SLR) communities to promote connection and Pictured from left to right: Joan and Carmen LaPorta and U.S. Congresswoman Katherine Clark. belonging. Congresswoman Clark gave LaPorta a Certificate of Personal Congressional Recognition, and Mayor Christenson offered an official Citation from the City of Malden wishing LaPorta a happy birthday. Carmen played a crucial role in World War II as part of the MAG-12 marine unit that provided air coverage for soldiers in the war. From 1942-1945, MAG-12 was a very versatile and important force supporting the Army, Navy and Marine Corps as well as Philippine guerrilla forces. They were awarded both the Army Distinguished Unit Award and Navy Unit Citation. After his time in the military, he returned home and opened University Barbershop on Commonwealth Avenue Shown standing are family members of Carmen LaPorta. Joan and Carmen LaPorta are seated. in the heart of a bustling Boston University campus. There, he had the privilege of meeting famed civil rights leader and Boston University graduate Martin Luther King, Jr. After selling the business, he spent the next 20 years of his life serving his country again as a U.S. Postal Service worker. Carmen was surrounded by a community of family, friends and associates. Starkweather said it best when she said, “He built a life, rooted in family, responsibility, and love.” His wife of 21 years, Joan, was by his side during the presentation and celebration. Everyone in the packed room enjoyed light refreshments and a large cake together. His life and achievements will be featured in an upcoming Forestdale Park newsletter. Standing, from left to right, are Forestdale Senior Living Executive Director Sarah Starkweather, VOAMASS President Charles Gagnon, U.S. Congresswoman Katherine Clark and Malden Mayor Gary Christenson. Joan and Carmen LaPorta are seated.
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