MIDDLEBORO –Hundreds of first responders and military personnel lined Nickerson Ave during Lieutenant Angelo AJ Lapanna’s last call during his services on Thursday, Oct.12.

“He was truly a caring and genuine person and the ultimate gentleman,” said retired Captain of Bridgewater Police Department Carl McDermott during Lapanna’s services.

Lapanna spent his life serving the community, from the Middleboro Police Department and the Army Special Forces to coaching the Middleboro High School football team. 

The Middleboro Police Department announced Lapanna’s death on Sunday, Oct. 1 after his two year battle with cancer.

 "Not only were his skills valued in the department, but he also had a huge impact within the greater law enforcement and military communities in our region. Above all, he was a valued friend and family member who will be dearly missed by all. We thank him and his family for his dedication and sacrifice,” said  Middleboro Police Chief Joseph Perkins.

Lapanna joined the Middleboro Police Department in July 2001 as a patrol officer. In 2019, he was promoted to Sergeant and served in that position until his promotion to Lieutenant in August 2023.

Lapanna served for a 23-year career in the Army National Guard, 10 years in the Military Police, and 13 years in the Army Special Forces (Green Berets).

He served two combat tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq, for which he was awarded a Bronze Star Medal.

Lapanna’s friend and fellow service member Chris Ryan recounted Lapanna’s deployment to Afghanistan in 2007, where Lapanna took control of the situation after his Detachment Commander was killed. 

“At the time AJ had the presence to get them to stop firing,” said Ryan. 

Personnel lined Nickerson Ave to give Lapanna a final salute as a State Police helicopter flew overhead.

As the procession headed to Bourne National Cemetery, local fire and police departments waved American flags from overpasses on Route 495.

“Lapanna was a hometown hero,” said Select Board Chair Mark Germain. “Thank you to all of those involved in the planning of the impressive service.”