Veterans, loved ones reflect on sacrifices

Some say the fighting in Iraq raises awareness of veterans' issues.
In Canfield and Boardman, veterans remembered their own service and were remembered by others Monday.
Memorial Day observances celebrated and honored the sacrifices and accomplishments of military men and women, bringing out a variety of emotions in people who turned out despite threatening rain and overcast skies.
"It's real sad, all these names on this wall and they're still having wars today," said Lana VanAuker of Canfield, looking on the Wall of Honor at the War Vet Museum on East Main Street in Canfield at the names of area veterans from the Revolutionary War to the present.
Her uncle, Lewis Speece, is the president of the museum, which was one focal point of Monday's activity in Canfield.
Awareness
The day began with a program on the Green featuring a speech by state Rep. John Boccieri, an Air Force Reserves major.
Afterward, people gathered at the museum to look at the war artifacts and to remember loved ones.
"I come out here every year," said Marie Dornshuld, looking for the name of her late husband, Alfred, on the wall. He served in the Marines and the Air Force Reserves.
Boardman honored veterans with a program at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater at Boardman Township Park.
Veterans were asked to come forward as the Boardman High School band played songs associated with each branch of service, from "The Marines' Hymn" to "Anchors Aweigh." Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Bill Moss laid a wreath at the park's monument honoring veterans, with the U.S., Ohio and POW/MIA flags flying at half-staff.
"Because we're in conflict right now, it brings a lot more awareness about veterans," said Bob Guyan, 50, of Youngstown, who served in the Army in the late 1980s. "It's nice to see people recognize their service."
His wife, Cathy, said that the times are also reminding people to teach their children about patriotism.
"It was nice to see all the little kids stand up for the flag," she said. "People are starting to think about things like that again. It's amazing."
Reverence and respect
John P. Brown III of Boardman, a national executive committee member for AMVETS, spoke at Monday's program. He encouraged people not to forget the service of veterans from all eras.
"We owe them a debt of gratitude," he said. "We must remember that it's up to us to uphold their legacy with reverence, respect and devotion."
Brown, who hosts a local radio show on Sundays dedicated to veterans' issues, said that veterans are getting more respect and attention these days. In his duties as an AMVETS committeeman, he frequently tours Veterans Administration hospitals and other facilities.
"Our young veterans coming home are getting some of the best care that we can offer," he said.
John Molson, 72, of Canfield, a member of American Legion Post 565 and a Korean War veteran, said that veterans appreciate the country's recognition. He said that he was touched by Sunday afternoon's ceremony honoring area Korean War veterans in Austintown, including those killed or missing in action.
"I met a 90-year-old woman whose son is still listed as missing in action. She's still waiting for him to come home," he said. It's heartbreaking."
He said that as the chaplain for his Legion post, he's often reminded of the cost of war.
"It's important to remember that some people sacrificed a lot, or gave everything."