BARNSTABLE – Michelle DeSilva was honored on Monday as this year’s recipient of the Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year award.
DeSilva, who lives in Brewster, was recognized for her work as founder of Cape Cod Cares for the Troops. The nonprofit began in 2005 after her 12-year-old son Dylan wanted to send a care package to troops in Iraq. Since then, the organization has sent over 21,000 care packages to soldiers overseas.
“What I do, I love to do, and I’ve always had a love of serving people and helping people. I think that’s what we’re all truly called to do,” DeSilva said in her acceptance speech.
DeSilva was nominated for the award by Cynthia DesLauriers, a Gold Star Mother whose son Mark Vecchione was killed in Iraq in 2006.
“For her to nominate me, it doesn’t get any more humbling than that. When you can have a Gold Star mom step up and say the things that she said,” DeSilva said. “She’s become a sister to me”
Born in West Barnstable in 1728, Mercy Otis Warren has been called “The First Lady of the American Revolution.” She is the younger sister of influential patriot James Otis and married James Warren in 1754. She published literature challenging British rule and urged colonial resistance. She also advocated for the inclusion of a Bill of Rights.
The Mercy Otis Warren Committee honors a local woman each year who demonstrates leadership in the community. The award has been given annually since 2002.
