20th anniversary of Eldred veterans memorial recognized
The Eldred Township Veterans Memorial received a makeover commemorating its 20-year anniversary. DERON CHRISTMAN/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS
Eldred Township Veteran’s Committee Chairman Archie Craig and state Rep. Jack Rader speak about remembering and honoring the sacrifices of past and present servicemen and women.
A display case in the Eldred Township Municipal Building holds a miniature version of the original veterans memorial, which was created in 1998. In recognition of its 20th year, it underwent a makeover with Little Gap Landscaping creating a little place to sit and remember those who served.
“We decided to renovate the memorial this year for a number of reasons,” said Archie Craig, commission chairman.
“In addition to the memorial’s 20th, it’s the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I and 243 years for the Marine Corps.”
Craig, who led the room in the Pledge of Allegiance, said that the day’s event was also in honor of past committee members and to introduce the new board.
The East Stroudsburg University Army ROTC Cadets were in attendance, and sang the national anthem, “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America.”
“Veterans Day is to honor the men and women who defend this country to no ends,” State Rep. Jack Rader said.
“Secondly, it’s a time to hope for peace, so that future generations will not have to make the sacrifices that previous generations have made.”
The ceremony concluded with a moving rendition of taps and a moment of silence for those who have fallen in battle.
Afterward, people chatted over coffee, remembering friends and family members past and the pride they had to serve our military.
