Lehighton vets mark Pearl Harbor day
Gary Beaver, along with members of the Lehighton UVO, pay respects to those lost in the Pearl Harbor attack Thursday at the Lehighton Veterans Memorial Park. CHRIS REBER/TIMES NEWS
Lehighton UVO members Harry J. Wynn (right) and Glenn Troutman salute as the American flag is raised following over the Lehighton veteran’s memorial. CHRIS REBER/TIMES NEWS
Flags flying over Veterans Memorial Park in Lehighton. CHRIS REBER/TIMES NEWS
Harry J. Wynn spoke during Thursday’s Pearl Harbor Day remembrance in Lehighton. CHRIS REBER/TIMES NEWS
It’s been 76 years since the attack on Pearl Harbor launched the United States into World War II.
And while the number of World War II veterans decreases each year, their fellow veterans say it’s their duty to continue to honor their sacrifice.
“There’s a different feeling between us, having been involved with it,” Rodger Diehl, a U.S. Army veteran, said.
On Thursday, members of the Lehighton United Veterans Organization gathered at the Lehighton Veterans Memorial Park, despite a cold and windy day. They were there to mark the anniversary of the surprise attack on the U.S. naval base in Hawaii.
Chaplain John Stefanick gave an invocation and benediction, while Sgt. at Arms Glenn “Smokey” Troutman placed a wreath upon the Lehighton Veterans’ memorial.
The ceremony marked the first Pearl Harbor Day since the dedication of the veterans park, and in particular a large anchor commemorating the service of Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine personnel.
Speaker Harry J. Wynn, a past post commander of the Lehighton VFW, said it’s important for people to remember Pearl Harbor as the reason the U.S. entered World War II, and also for the 2,403 Americans who lost their lives.
“It was a major event that affected our lives, even up until today, and our families,” Wynn said.
Wynn said that it’s important to honor those who served in World War II for their service and sacrifice before they are all gone.
“I remember when we started this program 30 years ago, we had plenty of World War II vets, but they’re dwindling now,” Wynn said.
The attack on Pearl Harbor inspired hundreds of thousands of Americans to enlist in the armed forces in the days following.
Those soldiers in turn inspired many of the veterans in attendance at Thursday’s ceremony.
“Most of our fathers, most of our parents, were World War II veterans. We followed as Korea and Vietnam veterans.
“We want to keep up the legacy of our forefathers who fought in World War II, and all the sacrifices they made for this country,” Wynn said.
