Brecksville Remembers Its Veterans

A small crowd gathered on Stadium Drive Friday afternoon to pay tribute to the city’s veterans and witness the dedication of Brecksville’s Blue Star Memorial Marker.

The Blue Star Memorial Marker is for the men and women who have served in the past, those currently serving and those who will serve the country in the future, said Kathy Ziemba, a member of the Chippewa Garden Club. The club was responsible for getting the memorial for the city.

But the event was truly a community effort.

Members of the joined the ceremony for the presentation of colors, a gun salute and taps. The gave an invocation and led the group in a closing prayer. And members of the Blue Star Mothers of America shared their stories.

Mayor Jerry N. Hruby noted that the memorial made a good addition to the in Public Square , and said that it was “just a small token” of the city’s appreciation for its veterans.

Hruby also thanked everyone in attendance, and asked the veterans there to stand and be recognized.

The audience also included the Kanclers, whose son died in Afghanistan this summer. Hruby said that the way the community turned out to support the Kanclers won’t be forgotten, and he asked for everyone to join him in a moment of silence for .