Shavertown resident Susan Ziller said the day is important to her family because her brother was killed while serving in Vietnam. The service concluded with the raising of the flag, including a salute from a rifle squad from Post 283 and the playing of taps. “So I ask today that you take time to think about that, because every day for them is Memorial Day,” he said. Karpovich also asked attendees to remember the families of fallen soldiers, and the sacrifices they now make because their loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. “To stand there and give remarks and just remember soldiers that did not make it home, it really does strike a chord with me.” It was amazing how many people, even with the weather, that came out,” he said. “I was honored to be a part of this Memorial Day celebration. He also recalled two close friends and veterans who lost their lives, making Memorial Day even more important to him. During the Vietnam War, 58,000 soldiers never came home, and 5,000 lost their lives while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. He told the crowd that the Korean War took the lives of 38,000 American soldiers - 33 of whom were members of the 109th. Raised in Hanover Township in a military family, the 18-year veteran first served in the 109th Field Artillery in Kingston before being transferred to Scranton and Allentown.Īs he made his remarks, Karpovich gave statistics that served as a reminder as to why Memorial Day is so important. John Paul Karpovich, of the 213th Regional Support Group in Allentown. Longtime parade participant Don Williams read the Gettysburg Address. 283 and American Legion Post 395, led the introductions. Master of ceremonies Bernard Shinko, of VFW No. Once in front of the Forty Fort borough building, the parade – which began at Kingston Corners – turned as participants entered the borough’s cemetery.įlags and a memorial wreath surrounded the monument inside the cemetery, as patrons gathered for the service. Making its way down the avenue, the Wyoming Valley West marching band played “You’re a Grand Old Flag” as the school’s color guard waved patriotic flags and cheerleaders performed. He’s 93 years old today, and he gets to be recognized.Īs parade-goers picked their viewing spots along Wyoming Avenue, the sound of drums and flashing of police lights could be seen passing under the Cross Valley Expressway. It’s very special, we cherish every year that we get with him. “I’m honored to have been here and celebrate this with him today. “I’m proud to be here with my grandfather,” he said after the event. He is especially proud of his grandfather, he added. Golden said the holiday is a wonderful day to recognize all military and remember the fallen. His family attended the event, including his grandson, Jason Golden. Monday was also his birthday.Īt the memorial service that followed the parade, Rishkofski was introduced and honored.Īnd although he did not speak, the crowd was quick to cheer him on as he waved and blew kisses. Not only is the Nanticoke native a veteran of World War II, but the 93-year-old was chosen to act as this year’s grand marshal. Residents of the West Side refused to let a little rain put a damper on their holiday as droves came out - with umbrellas in tow - to watch the 126th annual Memorial Day Parade.īut for Henry Rishkofski, this year’s parade was special in a variety of ways. Tired of ads? Subscribers enjoy a distraction-free reading experience.
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