Nov 10, 2002 By Patty Shultz 2 min read

CONNELLSVILLE – Area veterans and residents took time Friday to remember the sacrifices made by the men and women of the armed services. “There is no greater pride than being a veteran,” Don Burkholder, adjutant of the 24th District of the American Legion, said during the annual Veterans Day service at the Connellsville Senior Center.

“The veterans of World War II saved the world. The Korean War veterans stopped communism from spreading.

“Those now fighting will be supported by those who have gone before, because we are the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

Keynote speaker Robert Hixson, director of the Fayette County Veterans Affairs Office, said the veteran has contributed greatly to the strength of the nation and should not be forgotten.

“We celebrate Veterans Day to show our thanks as well as to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice,” said Hixson.

He recalled a recent encounter with a veteran who had been a prisoner of war who still found it difficult to see food being discarded after a family meal.

“He said he would have given anything for those scraps during his time as a prisoner of war,” said Hixson. “Not just for him, but his buddies.

“These veterans come from all walks of life, each with their own story to share about the war that they have fought.

“Some of the stories bring a smile to their face, while others bring a tear to their eye. …They are our heroes.”

Also taking part in the ceremony were members of the Connellsville Veterans Commission and Company D, 1st Battalion, 103rd Armor of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, based in Connellsville.

The Rev. Marvin Watson provided the invocation, and Emily White, a Connellsville Area High School student, played taps for the service.