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Source: Town of Westwood Facebook page. In this Facebook photo posted by the Town of Westwood on December 19, 2018, Thomas J. McCusker (center) is recognized by Select Board upon his retirement as Town Counsel.
5-07-2023 11:58pm
Thomas McCusker is the 21st Recipient of the John J. Cronin Public Service Award
Darlene Cancell
Editor
Last Monday, Thomas P. McCusker, Jr. was announced by Select Board Chair Rob Gotti at Town Meeting as the 21st recipient of the John J. Cronin Public Service Award, which is the Town of Westwood's highest honor to give.Â
The award recognizes an individual who has served with distinction and remarkable service to the community, in the spirit of John Cronin. John Cronin was a Treasurer of Westwood for many years, and an active volunteer in the community. Mr. Cronin served as president of the Westwood Historical Society and was a founding board member of Westwood Interfaith Council, among many other roles he held in the community.
Mr. McCusker was recognized for his over 50 years of service to the town, with service to Westwood beginning in 1968 when he was first elected to the Board of Selectmen. Following that responsibility, he went on to fill the role of Town Counsel years, retiring in December 2018.Â
He served on various Westwood boards and/or committees, including the "Dental Clinic" in the 1960s and was a recent member of Planning Board until April of last year. Mr. Gotti noted Mr. McCusker's involvement in revitalizing Islington Center, along with his other activities and accomplishments.
Mr. McCusker received a standing ovation by Westwood residents in attendance at Town Meeting.Â
Upon receiving the award, Mr. McCusker's response was brief. "John Cronin was a good friend of mine for a number of years. It's a great honor to have this and IÂ deeply appreciate it. And I thank you all very much," he said.
Mr. McCusker's name will be inscribed on a plaque in Town Hall. The plaque lists the names of all recipients of the John J. Cronin Public Service Award.
