Dan Waleski is a patriot who loves this country, loves his freedom, and loves the City of Derby.
But most of all he shows an unequaled dedication and participation in the representative form of government, according to Mayor Anthony Staffieri, who bestowed Waleski Thursday night with the first annual Citizen of the Year Award.
“If everyone gave of their valuable time, of their compassion and intelligent views, our country, and state, and our City of Derby, would be a better place to live,” Staffeiri told the audience gathered in the City Hall Aldermanic Chambers, just before calling Waleski to the podium.
Waleski, 86, who attends many meetings and offers his insight on a variety of topics, was visibly surprised.
“It’s unbelievable,” Waleski said after receiving the handsome plaque. “I don’t think I’m gonna sleep tonight.” Video below is from the Electronic Valley.
Waleski said he began attending municipal meetings in Derby when he was about 12-years-old, going along with his father, who was active in city politics.
“That’s the important thing, my whole family was civic-minded,” Waleski, said, when asked to describe himself.
He is a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and is active with the Catholic War Veterans, the American Legion and other veterans groups.
He marches in the parades and plays the bugle for Veteran’s Day and other ceremonies.
He attended the Hopkins School, a private school in New Haven, and holds a bachelor of science degree from Temple University.
He is a parishioner of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.
“My role is a concerned citizen,” he said, when asked to describe his activities.
He got more than a plaque though.
Staffieri also decreed that July 1, the date of the Derby fireworks show for Independence Day, shall be known as “Dan Waleski Day.”
“Let the beauty of each firework blast pay tribute to this incredibly fine man and spectacular citizen,” Staffieri said.
This is the first time Staffieri had bestowed the award. The video below is an interview with Waleski after he received the award.
The proclamation from Derby:
Photos courtesy of Derby City Hall.
