Tradition marches on in Girard

City remembers, lauds service members at Veterans Day event

GIRARD -- For Edward Odum, an annual remembrance program in the city was an occasion to honor a few fallen friends and comrades of his and, by extension, to remind people that many who served their country paid a high price to preserve others' freedoms.

"I try to remember them every day, not just one day out of the year," Odum, of Lake Milton, said.

From 1987 to 1991, Odum served in the U.S. Air Force as a jet-engine mechanic during Operation Desert Storm. He also thought of the friends he had lost.

Saturday's solemn Veterans Day program began with the Girard Veterans Council parade next to Boardman Medical Supply on North State Street and proceeded to the Officer Justin A. Leo Memorial Bridge, then continued to the War Memorial outside of the Girard Police Department.

On the bridge -- and in keeping with tradition -- Florence Rehburg, who's with Army and Navy Garrison 422 in Weathersfield, tossed a ceremonial wreath into the Mahoning River.

Odum, who is a truck driver and serves as junior vice commander with Army and Navy Garrison 422, said it's vital that those serving their country today also are honored and appreciated for upholding many of the nation's freedoms.

Delivering the keynote presentation was Mayor James Melfi, who offered a brief history of Veterans Day, then implored his listeners and others to remember and honor the cost, commitment and risks those who served in all military branches undertook on behalf of their country.

"Today, we honor all veterans for their willingness to serve and sacrifice for all. You are the true strength of our country, no matter when you served," Melfi said, adding, "Every one of you deserves the admiration of the entire country."

Echoing Odum's assessment, the outgoing mayor stressed that veterans' contributions and sacrifices for the nation must be remembered year-round, not just on special occasions such as Veterans Day.

"Veterans, you have done your duty -- to your friends, to your community and to your fallen comrades," Melfi continued.

Other aspects of Saturday's program included four members of Boy Scout Troop 40, based at St. Rose Catholic Church, raising the flag at the War Memorial, along with the Girard High School Band and the Girard Veterans Council Honor Guard making up a large portion of the parade.