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By Paul Chasko

A chilly morning at Chess Park in Monongahela didn’t hold down attendance at the Veterans Day ceremony, and the men and women from various Mon Valley veterans groups made it clear that their comrades-in-arms - active, inactive and fallen - would be honored on this day.

The Mon Valley Leathernecks stand at parade rest

Taking part in the ceremony were the Mon Valley Leathernecks, the Mid Mon Valley Shipmates, members of Posts 302, 613 and 949 of the American Legion, and members of Post 1409 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars - all in uniform and carrying their colors. It was an impressive sight - doubly so realizing that many of these men paying tribute were on the high side of 65 years in age, yet they wanted to be here to do their duty.

The City of Monongahela was represented by Mayor Bob Kepics and some Council members. Other dignitaries attending were State Representative Rick Saccone and Washington County Commissioners Larry Maggi, Diana Irey Vaughn, and Harlan Shober.

After a welcome by veteran John Koller, the colors were advanced by the Mon Valley Leathernecks (Marine vets). Mayor Kepics welcomed all to the ceremony. The National Anthem was sung by Ms. Kim VanVoorhis. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Representative Rick Saccone and the invocation was given by Rev. William Bailey of the Journey by Grace Church. A two-bell ceremony was done by the Mid Mon Valley Shipmates.

Additional welcoming remarks were made by Commissioner Larry Maggi, which were followed by a moving address by Ms. Susan Meighan, the Director of Veteran’s Affairs of Washington County.

Closing remarks from veteran Tom Corey were followed by a Benediction by Rev. Richard Bass of the Holy Tabernacle of God in Christ. A rifle salute by the Mon Valley Honor Guard and the playing of 'Taps' closed out a moving Veterans Day ceremony.

Click on “Gallery” for more photos of this event by Paul Chasko

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