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On July 4, I made my customary jaunt to the Wyoming Monument to observe the Independence Day ceremonies. As usual, it was a most enjoyable two hours of music, interesting speeches and tributes from various local organizations.
The program began with a concert by the Wyoming Valley Band, which included several stirring marches by “The March King,” John Philip Sousa. The address was by Kevin Rea, president of Wyoming Seminary, and was well-delivered and kept the audience in rapt attention.
The day affords me the opportunity to renew acquaintances with fellow veterans, but, sad to say, in the past few years several of them are no longer with us.
While the event is primarily to observe the anniversary of the battle and massacre of Wyoming, it also reminds us of the many sacrifices made to enable us to enjoy our freedom and liberty. On a personal note, my oldest brother, Joseph, made the supreme sacrifice in World War II, and another brother, John, who died last year, saw action in France and at the Battle of the Bulge.
There are too many of us who take our freedom for granted, and today while we are under assault from ISIS and interior terrorists, we should remember those who allowed us to remain free.
God bless America, land that I love.
Ralph Rostock
Carverton