26-05-2025
Alto Reste Park remembers fallen heroes with annual Memorial Day Service
ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) — A sea of over 3,000 flags was spread throughout Alto Reste Park on Sunday for its Memorial Day Ceremony, for every fallen hero who died serving their country.
Memorial Day honors the sacrifice and loss of those who served and died in the military, according to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Every year, the cemetery hosts a ceremony on the Sunday before Memorial Day. It included a display of military vehicles and artillery, a riderless horse, a gun salute and a presentation of colors.
'It's a ceremony of honor. And, so, you know, I hope they leave with just understanding that Memorial Day isn't about backyard barbecues. It's about honoring those who sacrificed so much for us,' Geoffrey Behrens, General Manager of Alto Reste Park.
There were also songs from all branches of service and taps.
John Bomeisl has attended the service for the past four years. He did a tour of duty for two years active and then four years inactive. He entered the Army on March 31, 1969. He came out of the service in 1975. Bomeisl was originally trained to go to Vietnam, but his orders were changed to Alaska before he could deploy.
His father-in-law was a Marine and Purple Heart recipient who is buried in Alto Reste Cemetery. Bomeisl's dad served in World War II and is buried in Saint Marys.
'It's a time to tribute to the people who have given their lives. Like, tomorrow morning, we're going to church in Saint Marys. They have a memorial mass and then a parade up to Saint Marys Cemetery for them. That's a really nice way to start your day, saying prayers for the veterans that gave their lives,' Bomeisl said.
This year's speakers were Pennsylvania State Representative Lou Schmitt and Blair County Court of Common Pleas President Judge Wade Kagarise.
Towards the end of the ceremony, a wreath was placed at Veterans Garden.
It's estimated that millions will travel, attend ceremonies, and observe the National Moment of Remembrance on Memorial Day at 3 p.m. local time.
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