Town of Ludlow pays tribute to fallen hometown hero

LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) – On National Purple Hearts Day, the town of Ludlow paid tribute to a fallen hometown hero, who sacrificed his life for our country. 22News was there to speak to his family and tell us about the special items they received to keep his memory alive.

Just inside the Island Pond Cemetery, a wreath was placed beside the grave of local hero, Paul Folvi. He died 80 years ago this month when a grenade was thrown into his foxhole, during combat operations in World War 2.

A burial flag was given to the family to remember their loved one.

“I’m honored that they’re doing something like this I’m really happy to be here today,” said Lafreniere.

“We’re all part of that story, we’re all beneficiaries of their service and the least we can do is honor them,” added Commander, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Brian Willette. “We will always honor them.”

Purple Hearts Reunited also retrieved a medal lost during Paul’s time in combat. Ludlow Veterans Services delivered this medal back to his family, during a ceremony Wednesday night.

“We never forget as veterans, it’s our sworn duty not to forget. It’s in our it’s in our blood. It’s in our hearts and our gut. We will not let this valor are going to go unrecognized,” said Willette.

Paul’s family says this medal is a reminder of his courage and the sacrifices made for our nation. “Seeing my uncle give his life regardless of the circumstances is a way that he honored our family name without even knowing it,” said Nephew of Paul Folvi, Pete Folvi.

The family hopes to pass on Paul’s flags and Purple Heart medal to future generations as a way to keep his memory alive.

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