St. Petersburg’s Mayor,
Mr. Vince Forsythe
What a wonderful Monday morning it was in St. Petersburg on May 27, 2024. The Memorial Day Service, with approximately 95 people in attendance, began at 11:00 a.m. with a warm welcome by St. Petersburg’s Mayor, Mr. Vince Forsythe. Rev. Larry Myers returned again this year to lead everyone in prayer. He was followed by 5-year-old Liam Bowser reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and Wow…what a job he did!! The crowd listened to the interesting and very moving “The Star-Spangled Banner As You Have Never Heard It Before”, and then everyone joined in the singing of the National Anthem. De Clover read a poem, “A Time to Remember” – Author Unknown, followed by the recognition of all Veterans in attendance with loud applause!!
P.D. Ashbaugh, Navy Veteran,
Marine Veteran Terry Kriebel, and
Active U.S. Air National Guard, Jacob Kriebel.
A wreath was then placed to honor all those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom by P.D. Ashbaugh, Navy Veteran, Marine Veteran Terry Kriebel, and Active U.S. Air National Guard, Jacob Kriebel.
St. Petersburg’s speaker was Mr. David Rupp, Retired U.S. Marine Master Sergeant. David moved back to his hometown after succeeding in numerous roles (primarily aviation maintenance) throughout his 21 years of service. His last duty station was his favorite because he and his family got to experience the Japanese culture.
The Karns City alumnus is now the Construction Supervisor/Project Manager at the Boyers Underground.
David Rupp,
Retired U.S. Marine Master Sergeant
David is an avid hiker and faithful Zion of Petroleum Valley Member. David is still married to his high school sweetheart, and they are parents and grandparents. David did a fabulous job of reminding us what Memorial Day is all about!
All in attendance were asked to stand, if they were able, and join in the singing of “God Bless America”. This was followed by Taps and the Echo, played by Scott Milliron and Jacob Kriebel.
Rev. Myers offered our closing prayer. Vince Forsythe, Mayor, offered closing remarks and thanked the many, many people who made this Service happen. The St. Petersburg Events Committee would like to thank the following:
Mayor – Vince Forsythe
Speaker – David Rupp
Rev. Larry Myers
Student – Liam Bowser
Their Veterans & Current Military - P.D. Ashbaugh, Terry Kriebel, & Jacob Kriebel
Musicians – Scott Milliron & Jacob Kriebel
The St. Petersburg Borough Council for making this event possible
St. Petersburg Volunteer Fire Company
Dennis Ashbaugh
Bill Vickers, Florist
St. Petersburg Events Committee/Spouses/Families
Thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and/or helped in any way!!
And all of our Veterans – those who have passed and those who have served and are currently serving! We owe you the biggest THANK YOU of all!!!
