AFTER-RIDE REPORT POSTED BY GAZEEBO FOR Q AT REQUEST OF GREASE

We met at Smaltz’s HD with Grease as our RC. Approximately 15 to 20 members from WWR & FotF showed up on this beautiful, sunny day…thanks Mother Nature! We departed for Manatawny Park in Pottstown for the dedication. The ceremony was prompt in starting at 1:00. A barber-shop type choir sang some patriotic songs. This was followed by a Military color guard escorting in all Veterans to front & center to recognize them for their service. Some local and state political figures gave inspirational talks, while remembering we were standing and sitting in the direct sunlight and kept it short in duration. All in attendance sang “Happy Birthday” to Gabe who was celebrating his 86th birthday today. A POW-MIA flag was presented by the Friends of the Forgotten to Jon Reber (Pottstown Parks & Recreation) & Gabe Fieni, to be flown with the American flag at the Memorial. For those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in WWII, a 21 gun salute was given in their honor. (This was done with men wearing uniforms from WWII!). Gabe Fieni, man behind this dream, gave a short but very touching & emotional speech of his time while in the Army, as a Medic. After his talk, the American flag was raised, again, by all Veterans present at today’s ceremony. Was very moving to see Veterans from various Wars come up and assist in raising our American flag, together. Even though this was a WWII dedication ceremony, there was a total unity for ALL Veterans present. All Veterans received a standing ovation from the audience for their service to our Country.

After the ceremony, all were invited for food, drinks, and a piece of birthday cake. During this time, there were a few groups who sang & played songs from this era.

Thank you goes out to all who attended. Not just from Pa, but from De. & Md. too.

09-08-0093