The East Milton Neighborhood Association awarded its first annual M. Joseph Manning Community Service Award to the late M. Joseph Manning to honor the legacy of his service to East Milton, Milton, Massachusetts, and our country at Abby Park Restaurant on October 7.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Manning family was Joe Manning’s cousin, Maritta Manning Cronin. State Representative Walter Timilty was on hand to present a proclamation from the House of Representatives, as well as several local elected officials including Selectmen Katie Conlon, Tom Hurley, and David Burnes, former Town Administrator John Cronin, Town Clerk Susan Galvin, former Town Administrator Kevin Mearn, and about fifty members of the Association.

Treasurer Joe O’Neill recalled how when he was a freshman at the University of Notre Dame, Joe Manning drove out with another parent to deliver a large footlocker with all his clothing in it.  It vividly showed how Joe Manning was more than willing to go the extra mile to help. It was a 2,000 mile round trip.

Board Member Arthur Doyle said, “The purpose of the East Milton Neighborhood Association’s annual M. Joseph Manning Community Service Award is to recognize and honor any citizens throughout the Town of Milton who exhibit the community service and spirit that is the legacy of M. Joseph Manning.”

Nomination forms for next year’s award will be available early January online at the Association’s website emna02186.wordpress.com. The deadline for nominations will be February 14, 2016, and the next award presented at the association’s April 6, 2016 annual meeting.

One of those present said, “I’m already thinking of who I want to nominate for next year”.