The National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Pennsylvania hosted its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Wednesday, drawing dozens of veterans, service members, and community members to honor the nation’s fallen. The cemetery, the final resting place for more than 30,000 individuals, has held this tradition for two decades, underscoring the importance of remembering those who secured America’s freedom.
Keynote address by Marine veteran Jack Wagner
Marine Corps veteran and former Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner delivered the keynote address. Wagner emphasized the profound link between the sacrifices of buried veterans and the liberty enjoyed today, stating, “If it wasn’t for all those who are buried here, in multiple other cemeteries in the country, freedom would not exist in the world.” His remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the ceremony’s purpose of gratitude and remembrance.
Tradition and ceremony details
The program concluded with the solemn playing of “Taps,” a wreath‑laying ceremony, and a three‑rifle volley, honoring the military tradition of paying respects to the fallen. Organizers also addressed a change in flag protocol: unlike Memorial Day, individual flags were not placed at each headstone this year. Cemetery director Darlene Mathis explained that national cemeteries follow an “Avenue of Flags” tradition, and a separate organization that attempted to place individual flags encountered supply difficulties.
Veterans share personal reflections
Several veterans offered heartfelt reflections. Army veteran Thomas Motyl urged the next generation to “Never stop. Always think of your veterans. Always think of your military personnel. They’re the ones that we owe everything to.” World War II Navy and Coast Guard veteran George Herwig added, “You don’t have to join the service. Just think about it in your mind. This is a land where you live and you have to protect it no matter what.” Army veteran Robert Burke described the cemetery as “hallowed ground” and likened it to “home,” noting that all of us will eventually rest there.
Community significance
Local attendees highlighted the ceremony’s role in preserving tradition and educating younger generations about the cost of liberty. The event serves as a reminder that the freedoms enjoyed in everyday life are rooted in the sacrifices of those who served, a message that aligns with the community’s shared values of faith, family, and patriotism.
For those unable to attend, the ceremony was streamed online, allowing broader participation across western Pennsylvania. The National Cemetery of the Alleghenies plans to continue the tradition for years to come, ensuring that the memory of America’s heroes remains alive in the hearts of families and neighbors.
Original reporting: WTAE (Hearst) – local — read the source article.
