Northeast Pennsylvania know how to honor a hero.  

Scranton-born Jimmy Reddington, USMC, lost his life in a fire fight in Vietnam, March 22, 1967. He had no close family locally, and was raised by distant relatives. All he had were a handful of school buddies, and his Brothers in Arms who were with him the day he lost his life. Every year, those comrades come from all over the United States to honor their fallen Brother, at his grave. Today, they were not alone. 
 
Jimmy was brought to the attention of Friends of the Forgotten by a few members who were those school buddies. Through the efforts of FotF Events Coordinator and WWR member Kim Atkinson, Jimmy today was honored by a whole town. In addition to his Brothers in Arms, were members of several NEPA Patriotic organizations, including Warriors’ Watch Riders, Friends of the Forgotten, and the Scranton Marine Corps League Northeast Detachment.

 
The Pledge of Allegiance opened the short but moving ceremony, attended by not only the groups mentioned, but townspeople, dignitaries, and the student body of a nearby school. The Pledge was followed by an invocation by FotF Chaplain and WWR member Frank “Old Scout” Lesnefsky. Congressman Kevin Murphy spoke a few words of honor and recognition, and presented a Certificate of Honor to Jimmy closest relative, a niece. County Commissioner Corey O’brien also spoke.
 
Jimmy’s comrades in attendance were recognized. Kim read a poem entitled “The Bravest Man I Know”. The poem is framed, and will travel with Kim and George Atkinson to Washington D.C. for Memorial Day Weekend, to be placed at the Vietnam Wall, at Jimmy’s panel.
 
Taps was rendered by FotF VP and bugler Nick Fata.
 
Rest in Peace, Jimmy Reddington, USMC. And we will be back to visit you again this time next year!
 
Respectfully Submitted,
Al “Bluesman” Philo
Warriors’ Watch Riders PA State Coordinator, Northeast Region