Astoria Honors Veteran Volunteer Before Centennial Ceremony

Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick recognized Peg Johnson on Sept. 8 for her local veteran support efforts.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Civic

Screen-print poster illustration of a weathered bronze memorial statue in a coastal plaza, surrounded by fog and muted evergreen trees. — Astoria Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick recognized local volunteer Peg Johnson on Sept. 8 for her ongoing work supporting veterans in the community. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do local volunteer-led projects improve the support network for veterans in your community?

Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick honored resident Peg Johnson on Sept. 8 for her dedication to coordinating a weekly support group for veterans in the city. The recognition precedes an upcoming commemoration of the WWI Doughboy Monument at the intersection of West Marine Drive and Columbia Avenue.

Why it matters

The city seeks to strengthen community ties and honor service history by highlighting individuals who support local veterans. This event bridges the gap between active volunteerism and the centennial observation of a historic city landmark.

The WWI Doughboy Monument has been included in the National Historic Registry of Places since 1984. Peg Johnson has been active in the Astoria community for a total of 3 years.

The players

Sean Fitzpatrick

He is the serving Mayor of Astoria who officiates municipal recognition events.

Peg Johnson

She is a local volunteer and organizer of the weekly Veteran's Coffee Hour at the Astoria Elks Lodge.

The details

Peg Johnson facilitates a weekly Veteran's Coffee Hour at the Astoria Elks Lodge where participants share stories and find mutual support. The city will continue its heritage efforts by hosting a re-dedication for the Doughboy Monument on its 100th anniversary.

Nov. 11, 1918: The original Armistice occurred.
1984: The Doughboy Monument was added to the National Historic Registry.
Sept. 8, 2026: Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick awarded Peg Johnson.
Nov. 11, 2026: The monument centennial and Veterans Day ceremony will occur.

Elections
Oct. 22
Astoria Voters to Choose Mayor November 3
City Hall
Oct. 21
Andy Davis to Run for Astoria Mayor on November 3
Elections
Oct. 23
Elisabeth Adams to Seek Reelection in Astoria

Industry Dynamics

The city maintains the monument site in accordance with the preservation standards established by the National Historic Registry of Places. This centennial event reflects a broader trend of municipalities revitalizing historical memorials to engage modern community members.

Residents interested in honoring the monument centennial should note the schedule of events starting at 11:00 a.m. on Nov. 11. The post-ceremony reception at the Astoria Public Library is open to the public for those wishing to participate in the commemorations.

The takeaway

Supporting local veterans through community-led initiatives creates lasting social bonds within a city. Residents can look for opportunities to engage with local history groups to ensure important monuments remain part of the public consciousness.

What happens next

The city will hold a re-dedication ceremony for the Doughboy Monument at 11:00 a.m. on Nov. 11, 2026, followed by a bell tolling at 11:11 a.m. and a reception at the Astoria Public Library at 12:30 p.m.