By Sam Hickey, Communications Chair, Board of Directors, Saluting Branches
In the world of service and dedication, sometimes the smallest moments create the deepest connections. That’s exactly what happened when Luke Fiske, a site leader at the Massachusetts National Cemetery (MNC), experienced an extraordinary encounter while representing Saluting Branches at a Tour des Trees fundraising event, organized by the TREE Fund.
Tour des Trees is a unique event that brings together arborists, cyclists, and supporters for a multi-day ride, raising funds for tree research and education. Saluting Branches, which shares a commitment to caring for trees while honoring veterans, was represented by Luke Fiske and Brande Tarantino at this event. Their mission was to connect with the community and riders while sharing how Saluting Branches cares for the property dedicated to our veterans.
Luke arrived early, as he always does, making sure everything was in place for the event. As he finished securing the Saluting Branches banner, a simple question sparked an unforgettable connection: “What is Saluting Branches?”
This question came from Massachusetts State Representative Steven Xiarhos, a man who, unbeknownst to Luke at the time, had a deeply personal connection to the work being done that day. Luke introduced himself and explained the mission of Saluting Branches — honoring American service men and women by organizing volunteer tree and landscape care for the property dedicated to our veterans. That’s when Rep. Xiarhos shared a profoundly moving fact: his son, Corporal Nicholas G. Xiarhos, a Marine killed in action in Afghanistan, was buried at the Massachusetts National Cemetery.
The commitment of the Massachusetts National Cemetery staff plays a vital role in preserving the memory and honoring the service of those laid to rest on its sacred grounds. Their work extends far beyond mere maintenance; it's about connecting families with their loved ones. “I am aware of your son’s resting place in Section 41,” Luke responded immediately, recognizing Nick’s name thanks to the diligent efforts of the MNC team. “We just performed a lot of work adjacent to his grave as part of this year’s Day of Service.” This revelation hit Rep. Xiarhos deeply. He looked Luke in the eyes and said, “This is amazing, I cannot believe this. This is Nick’s way of connecting things and having a presence in our lives.”
For Rep. Xiarhos, this moment felt like more than a coincidence. “It was Nick's way of connecting the dots, as he so often does,” he later reflected. “Making sure that his presence is felt in the lives of those who continue to honor him and his fellow service members.”
Moved by the encounter, Rep. Xiarhos offered Luke something that holds immense meaning to his family — a challenge coin created in Nick’s honor. "These coins were made to give to people who highlight special moments in our lives," Rep. Xiarhos said as he handed Luke one of the few coins ever distributed. The coin bore Nick’s image, his rank, and the words he spoke to his father during their last conversation: “Living the Dream.”
For Luke, this exchange encapsulated everything Saluting Branches stood for. “This moment never would have been possible if it were not for the Saluting Branches organization and all the effort that goes into giving back to our veterans and veteran families,” Luke shared. “Yesterday’s interaction is one I will never forget. It will serve as a reminder to never forget our veterans and their families for all they sacrificed and endured.”
Rep. Xiarhos, too, found deep meaning in the moment. “My family and I are deeply grateful for your kind words and the incredible work that Saluting Branches does for veterans and their families,” he said in a message to Luke following their encounter. “What you shared with the Saluting Branches Board perfectly captures the heart and soul of this wonderful organization, and it touched us deeply.”
Their story is a testament to the mission of Saluting Branches, a mission that goes beyond simple service — it is a mission of profound honor and respect. As Rep. Xiarhos expressed, “You are helping to preserve the legacy of not only my son but of all who have sacrificed everything for our country.”
Both Luke and Rep. Xiarhos left that day with a renewed sense of connection — not just to each other, but to the veterans and families whose sacrifices are honored through Saluting Branches. “If our story can bring attention to the incredible mission of your organization and remind others of the enduring sacrifices made by veterans and their families,” Rep. Xiarhos poignantly concluded, “then it is well worth sharing.”
The deep impact of Corporal Nicholas G. Xiarhos continues to resonate today, not only through his family but through those he’s touched in life and in death. To learn more about Nick’s story and the legacy he leaves behind, visit Big Nick's Ride for the Fallen, a tribute to his life and the many lives he continues to inspire.
Through moments like this, Saluting Branches continues to build a legacy of care, respect, and remembrance, bringing lives together in ways no one could anticipate but that everyone will cherish. If this story touched your heart, consider joining Saluting Branches’ mission to honor our veterans. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, you can help preserve their legacy.
Reach out to us at info@salutingbranches.org (mailto:info@salutingbranches.org) and make a difference today.
