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17 fallen veterans to be honored at Lowellville Day
By EMMALEE C. TORISK
LOWELLVILLE
The village will honor 17 of its bravest men who died in combat during World War II and the Vietnam War at the 37th annual Lowellville Day on Saturday.
For years, plaques bearing the name, military rank, place of death and age of death for each of the 17 fallen soldiers lined Liberty Street, but recently had begun to take “such a terrible beating,” said Ronald Rotunno, chairman of Lowellville Day and a village councilman.
The memorial plaques, constructed of various metals, were being weathered by the elements, as well as by road salt and street repairs.
“A concerned citizen came up to me and said, ‘Why don’t we look at moving those plaques?’” Rotunno said. “A lot of people didn’t even know they were there.”
Soon afterward, village administrators arranged to have the plaques removed and refinished, then installed around the downtown gazebo.
A rededication ceremony for the plaques will be the main theme of this year’s Lowellville Day, said Mayor James Iudiciani Sr. He added that the event’s annual parade will begin at the high school, 52 Rocket Place, at 3 p.m., then make its way downtown by 3:30 p.m.
The memorial program will begin at 3:45 p.m., and will include a performance of the national anthem by the Lowellville High School Band, a prayer led by chaplain Charles Maholtz, a 21-gun salute and taps.
Rotunno added that at least eight families of the deceased soldiers will attend the rededication ceremony, during which family members will have the chance to place a single rose on each of the plaques.
Though Lowellville Day usually includes a program that recognizes outstanding citizens who have dedicated their lives to the village, Rotunno said this year’s program is especially significant.
“It’s time that our younger generation knows about these 17 and the sacrifice they made,” he said. “Now, they’ll get to know their names.”
DJ Mike Romeo will perform after the memorial program, from 5 to 5:30 p.m., while Hold No Grudge, a local rock band, will play from 7 to 11 p.m.
Local food vendors and games will also be set up in the downtown area throughout the day.
Overall, Rotunno said Lowellville Day is a tradition, and one that is important to continue.
“Everybody comes together. It’s a day to honor our heritage, our community,” he said. “It’s not just for Lowellville people either — people outside of Lowellville are more than welcome.”