Iraq Monument Placed

By LORI A. SMITHBERGER

Area residents and veterans gathered at Wheeling's Heritage Port on Monday for the Memorial Day dedication of the Operation Iraqi Freedom-Enduring Freedom Monument.

Erected through the efforts of local Boy Scout Carlton J. Ferrell of Troop 34 as part of his Eagle Scout project, the monument pays tribute to those who have and continue to serve in the Middle East conflicts. The monument is inscribed, "We will never forget."

"The memorial, for me, is more of a tribute than a project," said Ferrell, noting the role the community played in establishing the monument. "I have a lot of relatives who have served, and this is my way of participating and doing my part. It's really been a community project. All of the local veterans' organizations have contributed, and the Elks (Lodge No. 28) have donated their space for the reception. There have just been a lot of people involved."

The dedication drew more than 100 attendees, including Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va.; Wheeling Mayor Nick Sparachane; Marine 1st Sgt. Lee D. Bonar Jr.; 2004 West Virginia Marine of the Year John Nanny; and 2003 Marine of the Year Dale Sigler; in addition to numerous other area veterans.

The event began with a welcome by VFW Post 4442 and American Legion Post 1 Commander Robert S. Kish, followed by the Parade of Colors by Boy Scout Troop 34. Services included tributes to prisoners of war, those missing in action and a tribute to veterans of all wars in which a bouquet of flowers was tossed into the river by Nanny. A history of Memorial Day was presented by Eugene Stradwick of American Legion Post 89.

A highlight of the event was the Memorial Day messages delivered by American Legion District 1 Commander Joseph Fatigati, Mayor Sparachane and Sen. Rockefeller, who served as the celebration's keynote speaker, in which each paid homage to veterans both past and present with special recognition for those service members currently overseas.

The actual dedication of the monument was conducted by Ferrell, Scoutmaster Ted Berisford and Bonar, and included the reading of a letter from U.S. Rep. Bob Ney, R-Ohio, who applauded Ferrell for his efforts to recognize military service.

"Carlton Ferrell must be commended," Ney said.

The monument "represents an on-going struggle that's not going to be over with in the near future," added Bonar. " I just hope that Americans understand that their support of those in service means so very, very much. During time of chaos and war, that's what holds us together. As servicemen and women, we are so grateful to have such fine Americans here to care for and support us in our service."

  The services closed with "Taps," played by Wheeling Park High School Band member Justin Jacovetty and a benediction by Sigler, with an open reception following at Elks Lodge.