On November 11, 2011, a small but resolute band of citizens braved a very windy and chilly Fall morning and assembled at the Riverton Veterans’ Memorial for a ceremony to honor veterans and witness the addition of fifteen names to the Honor Roll.
Speaking for the VFW, Thomas J. Farrell declared, “When it comes to the ‘Greatest Generation’… it is the generation that has to bear the burden of Freedom. No matter what war–every generation has taken their place, and did what was necessary to preserve our way of life.” His heartfelt address served to recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice of each generation of men and women which has served our country during conflict, as well as underscore the borough’s new policy of inclusiveness in regard to eligibility for the Honor Roll.
Honor Roll Eligibility: Any present or former resident of the Borough of Riverton, living or deceased, who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, during a time of war, is eligible to have their name placed on the memorial.
To verify eligibility, you must present a copy of your DD-214 (discharge papers) or a copy of your military orders. Contact either Councilman Bill Brown (now Mayor-elect) or President of Council Bob Smyth through the Riverton Borough Contact Page.
Names added to the Honor Roll 11-11-2011: George H. Baker Charles E. Bishop Michael E. Burns Thomas A. Cairns Jr. William W. Cook Sr. Gerard C. Edsell J.E. “Betty” (“Jef”) Fountain-Schopp John J. Martin Allan P. Mason Mitchell J. Rabil Ralph J. Ragomo John B. Shaw Edward D. Smyth James G. Stanton Robert B. Stevenson
Photos recently added to the Album: J.E. Fountain-Schopp Carl T. McDermott Paul C. McDermott William J. McDermott Ralph J. Ragomo Lester R. Yearly Joseph L. Yearly
Readers, if you are a qualified Riverton veteran or know of someone who is, please help us honor Riverton veterans by adding their photo to the Historical Society of Riverton’s online Veterans’ Honor Roll Album. Fifteen names and seven more photos have been added since the last addition of this past Memorial Day.
Click on this link to view a short video clip (1 min., 37 sec.; 38MB) of the ceremony. – John McCormick, Gaslight News editor
