Veterans Appreciation Ceremony honors service members throughout the Ohio Valley

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) — The Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival honored veterans throughout the area on Saturday during the Veterans Appreciation Ceremony.

Organizations like the Moundsville Honor Guard and the Wheeling Vets Center’s Guitars for Vets were present to honor those who have fallen in service.

“I’ve lost buddies overseas and it’s not just an honor, it’s hard to explain sometimes. It’s just a thing that needs to be done, has to be done, especially if you are, or know someone who has lost their lives serving this great nation.”

Spencer Curry, chaplain at the VFW post 44-42 in Elm Grove

During the event, the Missing Man Table Ceremony and the Laying of the Wreaths took place to acknowledge those who won’t return home and those who are considered MIA.

“We came here to help provide the empty chair ceremony and the 21-gun salute to honor our veterans. We’re very proud veterans, proud to have served our country, but we never, ever forget our fallen brothers.”

David Schoenian, member of the Moundsville Veterans Honor Guard

West Virginia State Senator Ryan Weld, spoke about the significance of Italian Americans involvement in combats dating back to the revolutionary war.

“Thousands of Italians came over from Italy and served alongside the Patriots who fought in that war against the British all the way up until today’s service. So, it was important for me to highlight that service in the remarks and just show that Italian Americans have always been one of the largest, most you know, willing to serve groups – ethnic groups here in the US.”

Sen. Ryan Weld, R-WV

7News would like to thank service members, both retired and active, who have worked tirelessly to protect our country.

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