Clarion area ‘never forgets’ its veterans

More than 100 people came out in freezing temperatures and foot-deep snow to Clarion Cemetery on Saturday to place wreaths on the graves of the area’s veterans.

It was an event similar to other Wreaths Across America events held simultaneously at noon across the country and other cemeteries in the Oil Region.

“The Clarion area never forgets the people who served,” said Richard Weaver, whose son was killed on board the U.S.S. Stark in 1987. “This is a prime example today of your support for the people who served our country and are no longer with us.

“We are not here to remember their deaths, but to remember their lives. They committed themselves unselfishly. People quote statistics, but they are just numbers. Remember, they were sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters.”

Weaver said the “worst thing” for a veteran is to be forgotten.

“That is why we say their names when we place the wreaths upon the gravesite,” he said.

Clarion Borough Mayor Brett Whitling said the event showed “a united front of gratitude and respect as we remember the fallen, honor those who served and teach our children the value of freedom.”