Flag to Honor the Memory of John W. Remedis, Jr. “Johnny Angel” U.S. Army Vietnam War Veteran

During the month of June, the 81st Lights for Peace flag to fly at the Fort Taber – Fort Rodman Military Museum honors the memory of John W. Remedis, Jr., otherwise known as “Johnny Angel,” a former U.S. Army Vietnam War Veteran, beloved DJ, Downshifter’s Car Club founder and dedicated community servant from Freetown, MA.

Remedis was born on January 19, 1947, the son of the late John W. Remedis, Sr. and Barbara (Kelly) Remedis. He grew up in Middleboro, MA and was a graduate of Middleboro High School, Class of 1966. He went on to study Criminal Justice at Bristol Community College in Florida.

John was proud of his military service as a decorated Vietnam Veteran, serving in the U.S. Army Big Red One 1st Infantry Division. According to his obituary, John’s bravery in combat resulted in him receiving both the Silver Star Medal (for bravery when he saved lives under enemy fire) and the Purple Heart. Additionally, he received a Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars, an Army Commendation Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, 20S Bars, a National Defense Service Medal, a Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 1960 and a Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge.

Remedis was known throughout the Southcoast for his veteran’s advocacy, his involvement in the New England Chapter of the Downshifters’ Car Club, his DJ business and his numerous volunteer positions with organizations close to his heart. These include the Rotary Club of New Bedford, the Veterans Transition House, the Freetown VFW #6643, where he served at Commander, MA VFW, the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #499 New Bedford and the Middleboro Honor Guard. He was also a member of the Town of Freetown’s Parade & Fireworks Committee, Cultural Council (as President), Emergency Management Agency and Memorial Park Committee — all demonstrating his love for and service to his town. He also served as President of the Welcome Home Veteran’s Housing (the Sean Brooke House) and four separate Vietnam Moving Wall Committees: Dartmouth, Plymouth, Middleborough and Fairhaven; honoring the legacy of his fellow veterans.

His love for antique cars grew over the years and he became a mainstay in the local car club scene. John, who was affectionately referred to as “Johnny Angel,” could be found DJing car cruises at the VFW in E. Freetown, in Rochester at Plumb Corner, in Mattapoisett at the Town Wharf, at the Downtown New Bedford Car Show and 50’s Night, not to mention the 18 years that he served as DJ for Ashley Ford and Empire Ford’s Mustangs and More car shows.

Remedis served over 23 years in law enforcement, retiring as Detective Sergeant, after serving police departments in Middleboro, MA, Treasure Island, FL and Madeira Beach, FL. According to his family, he always spoke fondly about his career in law enforcement and appreciated the opportunity to serve the public and to help people who were experiencing difficult moments.

In 2004, Remedis was named both the Veteran of the Year by the Veterans Transition House and the Standard-Times Man of the Year.

According to the Standard-Times article honoring Remedis, “Life lessons learned, some while surviving combat and working in law enforcement, have shaped John Remedis into a caring person who unselfishly helps so many, those who know him say.”

Above all, Mr. Remedis puts others first. And he does so quietly while asking nothing in return. He is known to shun any attention called to his kindness and generosity. It seems that everyone who knows him has a story about his acts of charity.

Donat J. “Dan” LeBlanc, a longtime friend of Mr. Remedis and former director of veterans services for New Bedford, was quoted as saying, “Because of John’s actions — he saved lives and repelled the Vietnamese. Without credit, without any accolades he just does it. It’s a love for others that he has. He’ll do something for anybody.”

The Veteran Transition House recalled, “John served our mission with honor and passion: He previously served as President and was serving as Vice President of our Board of Directors to this year. He helped guide VTH’s mission to provide safe, supportive housing and wrap-around services to homeless and at-risk veterans.”

His commitment extended far beyond VTH — John was deeply woven into the fabric of his community and beyond. Beyond his years of dedicated police service and honorable service as a Vietnam veteran, he continued to give back to the community in countless ways.

Through volunteering with local veterans groups, his involvement with the Down Shifters Car Club and donating proceeds from his work as a DJ to support local non-profits and charitable causes, he has made a lasting impact on so many lives. Above all, he is best known for his generosity, compassion and unwavering charitable support throughout the community.

His life embodied service — at VTH, in his town, and across the veteran community. He never sought praise; he simply acted, always ready to offer a “hand up, not a handout,” and to stand by those in need.

Remedis passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 78. He is survived by his wife of over 22 years, Linda Hope (Folcik) Remedis, his stepdaughter Elizabeth Dennehy, her husband Andrew and his two granddaughters, Elle and Sofia. He also leaves behind his sisters Gail Carter and Grace Moniz.

He was predeceased by his parents, the late John W. Remedis, Sr. and Barbara (Kelly) Remedis, and siblings, including the late Donald Remedis, Marilyn Wilbur, George Remedis, Joan Buffinton and Joseph Remedis, Sr.

A story published by WBSM.com summed up John’s dedication to others as follows:

“Remedis used the nickname ‘Johnny Angel’ in association with his DJ gigs, as well as with the classic car club he founded, the Downshifters of New England. However, the ‘Angel’ moniker had a double meaning, as Remedis himself was like an angel to so many with his selfless dedication to service — in the military, as a public servant and as a private citizen.”

Linda Ferreira, of Empire Ford, researches the life histories of area residents. American flags are provided by Empire Ford. Flags are raised by the staff at Fort Taber – Fort Rodman Military Museum. Those who would like to honor a local veteran in the future can contact Linda Ferreira at [email protected].