Pocono News Section

Memorial Dedicated to PA Patriots Killed in Iraq

Memorial Dedicated to PA Patriots Killed in Iraq - Sunday, September 27, 2009 at 7:00PM EST

Reported by: Eyewitness News
Sunday, Sep 27, 2009 @ 07:00pm EDT
NEW MILFORD, SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY -- This month marks four years since six soldiers from the 109th Infantry were killed in Iraq.

Their deaths touched all of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Sunday a memorial was finally dedicated in their honor, to serve as a remembrance for their families and fellow soldiers.

After four years of planning and months of work, a lasting monument to six fallen Pennsylvania Patriots now stands outside the New Milford Armory.

On a cloudy, soggy Sunday, it was unveiled to brighten the days of families who lost loved ones. Judy Parker said, ÒI'm just glad to see it done and have a place for the soldiers and their families to honor all six here at one time."

Parker is the mother of one of the six fallen soldiers, Specialist William Evans. ÒItÕs a long journey and itÕs a journey that none of us intended on taking and we hoped we'd never have to take and the journey is ongoing," she said.

All six of the soldiers were killed in 2005 in Arramadi, Iraq. Those who are honored are William Evans, Eric Slebodnik, George Pugliese, Daniel Arnold, Lee Weigand and Oliver Brown.

Memorial Fund Executive Director Jane Evans said, ÒThe best way I can describe today is an awesome day. We've waited so long. ItÕs a rainy day...but that's okay."

Many call the memorial simple but appropriate. Fellow soldiers say itÕs not quite finished just yet. Lt. Jeremiah Johnson of Bravo Company 109th Infantry said, ÒWe have some railings that we're going to be installing. In addition, we'll add some lighting and smaller features to put in."

For a band of brothers this memorial means so much, and families know it will for years to come. ÒEven boys that didn't know the six soldiers will still remember the sacrifices made by their brothers in arms. It'll be a memorial here that will be here years past even us," said Parker.

Organizers of the memorial say they're always raising money. If you'd like to make a donation you can contact the New Milford Armory.