In Roxborough, Memorial Day feelings run deep

Veterans, families and neighbors gathered outside a VFW post in Roxborough this Memorial Day to honor fallen soldiers. It was one dozens of such Memorial Day events around the region.

 

“It comes back to me on Memorial Day … those we left in Vietnam,” said 77-year-old Robert Jay.

Jay was one of about three dozen people who gathered in front of the Hattal-Taylor VFW post, facing rows of white crosses and American flags under the midday sun.

“I mean, they gave their lives. At least I can do is give some time,” said Georgette Lawrence, a past VFW President for District 1.

The service featured a prayer, the story of a soldier, gun salutes and taps.

Len Turzo, born and raised in Roxborough, says he came out to show respect for veterans from the neighborhood and  from around the world.

“A couple of my friends served in uniform were home safe, some not,” said Turzo. “So it’s an important day.”

A service there earlier in the day paid specific tribute to the post’s six members who died this past year:

Russell H. Harrison, who served in World War II and Korea.
Norman L. Snyder, a U.S. Army vet who served in the Korean War era.
William Farrell, a Vietnam War-era Marine.
Manfred O. Bucci, U.S. Navy, WWII.
Edward C. Devers, U.S. Army. Korea
James J. Johnson, a Marine from the Vietnam era.

Many went on to attend an afternoon service at the Gorgas Park, where a new memorial wall was unveiled. Post members said they used to lead a parade over to the park, but it became too costly.