Ground broken for veterans memorial

Six granite monuments will be a focal point for the new memorial.
By SARAH WEBER
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
STRUTHERS -- Applause and camera flashes filled the lawn outside of Struthers High School as U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan and Gene Yuhas broke ground for the installation of a new veterans memorial.
Yuhas got the idea for a memorial five years ago, and a committee of community members has been working on the project at monthly meetings ever since. The memorial will consist of six granite monuments, one for each branch of the military, three flag poles, four benches and several trees.
"I think it will bring enthusiasm that there are people still interested in honoring our veterans," Yuhas said.
He said that all the money for the $74,000 project has been raised through donations. The trees, which have already been installed at the site, were donated by Mahoning County commissioners.
Remebering a legacy
Ryan, guest speaker at the ground breaking ceremony, said it was important to remember the veterans' legacy of responsibility.
"We know we're strong, we know we could blow everyone to smithereens," said Ryan of Niles, D-17th. "What makes us different is our restraint."
He commended Yuhas and the committee on coming together to make the project happen.
"We're all getting along better than we have in years," Ryan said. "This isn't about who gets to take credit, it's about the common good."
An American flag that has been flown over the state capitol was presented to the memorial committee by state Rep. John Boccieri of New Middleton, D-61st, who also is a pilot in the Air Force Reserves.
"These granite and stone structures will be indicative of the strength of this community," Boccieri said.
Construction of the memorial is set to be completed by late July or early August. Because the memorial will be a permanent part of school property, the Struthers Board of Education will oversee the long-term maintenance of the site.