Monument in Jim Thorpe dedicated to waterborne

Veterans, community members and politicians came out for the dedication of a monument honoring waterborne service members at Jim Thorpe Memorial Park on Saturday.

Navy Club Ship No. 260’s Robert “Ski” Siesputowski, who, along with his fellow members raised the funding for the bronze plaque mounted on marble, hosted the event, encouraging those in attendance to not only thank those who served, but to truly make them feel at home.

“These people should be remembered,” Siesputowski said. “Do me a favor, when you see a veteran. I understand you say ‘Thanks for your service,’ but do me a favor, and tell that boy or that girl, ‘Welcome home.’ That means a lot.”

Siesputowski said that the Jim Thorpe waterborne memorial is the fourth such installation that Ship No. 260 has sponsored. American Legion Post 304 and the Jim Thorpe borough also offered assistance with the memorial.

Angela Nardini sang both the National Anthem and the “America the Beautiful” for the crowd, eliciting a humble display of pride and respect from current and former service members.

Mayor Mike Sofranko, Rep. Doyle Heffley, Rep. Lou Barletta’s aide Tyler Brezntski, and Sen. John Yudichak’s aide Brad Hurley commended the Navy, Marine, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines for their service and sacrifice.

Col. Mark Austin offered remarks on behalf of the Governor’s office, in addition to jokingly pointing out that Army and Navy can get along, unless there’s a football game.

Henry Desrosiers, director of Carbon County Veterans Affairs, thanked both veterans and community members for coming together to honor those who have served, are serving, and will one day serve in the armed forces.

“Today, we are here to dedicate a memorial to our many men and women who served in the waterborne services,” Desrosiers said. “Our liberties and values are safe today because of the brave men and women who have been ready to face the fire. We thank God for each and every one them. This memorial speaks to Carbon County and the strength of each of its communities with their united stance in undertaking to recognize the service and sacrifice of those from Carbon.”

Following a closing prayer and taps, Siesputowski rounded out the ceremony with a simple but touching reminder to honor the veterans, no matter what branch they served with.

“At this time I’d like to thank everybody for showing up. Believe me, I appreciate it,” he said. “Just don’t forget the veterans – give them a ‘welcome home’ and a thumbs up. Thank you.”