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Pocono News Section
Civil War Veterans Remembered in the Poconos
Civil War Veterans Remembered in the Poconos - Monday, May 25, 2009 at 5:50PM EST
STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY- In the Poconos, hundreds lined the streets in Stroudsburg. They honored Civil War soldiers and their sacrifices.
More than 30 soldiers from the Poconos were killed in the Civil War back in the 1800s. Monroe County has several historic artifacts from that war that are on display. Those artifacts were never recognized, until Monday. Memorial Day 2009 took on special significance in downtown Stroudsburg.
For decades, two civil war cannons right outside the courthouse have gone unrecognized, until now. Parade organizer Al Fariole said, “It’s important. They've been here 112 years. Some people that I've mentioned it to, don't even know they're here -- what cannons?"
Both cannons were installed in 1897, and a plaque was officially unveiled for them. History buffs hope the dedication gets people to remember the past on a daily basis. Civil War re-enactor Ron Myzie said, “I think it would be kind of a waste of energy if we went thru all this and they didn't."
The cannon dedication was just a small part of Stroudsburg's Memorial Day celebration. Marching bands, community groups and soldiers all took to the streets. A huge crowd turned out. Korean War veteran Pat Coppola said, “They understand what it is and it makes me feel good. It’s very gratifying to see these people sitting down, waving flags and honoring you."
Vicki VanHorn was in the crowd. She lost her son Jason Pirro five years ago in combat. She told Eyewitness News Memorial Day is a difficult Day.
World War II veteran David Crane said, “Years ago, you were out and nobody ever said anything to you about your service. Today, just about everyday somebody comes up and thanks you for the service and they don't know just how much that's appreciated by all the veterans."
The Memorial Day parade and celebration in Stroudsburg has been a tradition since 1955, but it almost stopped four years ago. Without crowds like the one Monday, organizers say they wouldn't be able to continue it each year. | | |
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