MVPC has begun a blog series celebrating the service of former staff and commissioners whose legacy has left lasting impressions on the Merrimack Valley. This month, we are featuring our former Commissioner and Chairman, Mr. Merrimack Valley himself, Luther McIlwain.

To say that Luther knew the value of service and community engagement would be an understatement.  As a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, Luther fought during World War II as an instrumental member of the 1,500 missions the Airmen endured overseas while fighting for equality and recognition at home. He risked his life in honor of freedom despite the discrimination the prestigious black combat unit faced on the homefront. In addition to the 3 Distinguished Unit citations and 150 Distinguished Crosses the Unit received, Luther stood with the remaining Airmen to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal by President Bush in March 2007, where the President saluted the Unit for their service in the face of racial injustice.

Service for his country and community didn’t stop there. After departing from the service in 1947, Luther went on to become a New York City police officer for 23 years before returning to Methuen to work as Assistant to the Mayor in the Office of Equal Opportunity for another 20 years. There he became Methuen’s Commissioner for the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, continuing his service regionally and locally. Luther served as Chairman of the Commission for three years and Vice Chairman for four years. Those who knew him revered him for his selflessness and never-ending energy to advocate for local and regional issues.

Sadly, but nobly, Luther departed in February of 2013 and left a legacy of devoted service that served to better our nation and region. The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission would like to celebrate and thank former Chairman Luther McIlwain for his dedication and the lasting impression he left on those who were fortunate enough to work with him.

Former Chairman Luther McIlwain, June 2009

Sources include MVPC’s former Executive Director Gaylord Burke, Renee Nadeu, and Colneth Smiley Jr. of the Boston Herald, Anita Davis, and Associated Press for contributions and featured photo. Click on the links below for a series written by The Valley Patriot on Luther “A Hero in our Midst”.

Valley Patriot  Part 1
Valley Patriot  Part 2