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ByMichael Kurtz
Journal Staff Writer

As America celebrated its 228th birthday Sunday, Middletown honored the 331 local servicemen and women who gave their lives serving in uniform, and those serving today, with the unveiling of a veteran’s memorial at Woodside Cemetery.

The ceremony ended more than three years of planning, designing and fund-raising by the community’s veteran organizations, historical groups and private citizens.

But the 54-foot long, eight-foot high black granite wall that now dominates the cemetery’s main entrance meant more to the hundreds gathered than just a memory of faceless soldiers serving in faraway places.

“I think this is one of the greatest things this community’s ever seen,” said Bob Hale, chaplain of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3809 and a veteran of the Korean Conflict. “These are not strangers. These are people we know. They’re friends, loved ones and family.”

Hale, speaking on behalf of all Korean Conflict veterans, stopped halfway through his speech. Like many in attendance, he gathered himself, wiped a tear and took a deep breath.

“Whenever anyone thinks freedom is free, bring them here,” he said. “They’ll damn sure learn fast that freedom is not free.”

Etched into the wall are the names of every Middletown resident who lost their life while serving in the military: 330 men, and one woman: Patricia Smith, who died while on active duty during World War II.

Part of the memorial pays tribute to the area’s three Medal of Honor recipients, Patrick Kessler, William S. Barber and Gordon R. Roberts.

Nationally renowned historical artist Mort Kunstler — 50 years of his work decorates various sections of the monument — said he wouldn’t have been a part of the project without acknowledging the trio.

“For me, there’s nothing higher than the Medal of Honor. For three to come from the same town is amazing,” Kunstler said.

Scattered throughout the images of soldiers marching through jungles and pilots soaring their fighters and bombers through skies are tributes to some of Ohio’s heroes.

The faces of John Glenn and Neil Armstrong overlook tributes to the state’s aviation history.

BUT MOST noticeable are the names.

From the first man killed — Victor Galbraith, who was put before a firing squad during the Mexican War — to Jody L. Egnor and Bartt D. Owens, both of whom died during Operation Enduring Freedom, every Middletown soldier and sailor is remembered and honored.

Anthony Valen, judge on the Middletown-based Ohio 12th District Court of Appeals, said the wall is more than just a tribute to the fallen.

“In reality, it’s meant to honor those serving today and those who have served,” said Valen, a key member of the committee who made the memorial reality.

The crowd of more than 300 was dressed in red, white and blue, and mixed with those in uniform and those donning the caps of the service branches of which they once belonged.

Staff Sgt. Ken Waughtal, serving with the Illinois National Guard, brought his 3-year-old son Adam to share in the moment.

“I just appreciate that we’re here today. It means a lot more when you’re serving,” Waughtal said.

Flags from every branch of the military now fly behind the memorial, along with the U.S., Ohio and POW/MIA flags.

The ceremony included a flyover by the 178th Fighter Wing and a 21-gun salute by the 5th Ohio Artillery, American Legion Post 218 Honor Guard.

But the ceremony, its beauty and the magnificence of the monument took a back seat to the memories of those who died in service to their country, and the prayers for those in uniform now.

“Like all wars, World War II needs no memorial, as all wars are unforgettable,” said retired Judge George Elliott, speaking on behalf of World War II veterans.

“It is those who fought and died and those fighting now that need to be remembered.”

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