Bradford Era – by Fran De Lancey

Pastor Frank Eppley, a decorated Vietnam veteran, posed a question during Monday’s Memorial Day services on the courthouse steps in Smethport.

“How do we put into words the feelings that we all share on Memorial Day and every day for the men and women who are not only fallen soldiers of our wars, but also the husbands and wives who we say ‘Goodbye’ to every day?” he asked.

While people celebrate this national holiday in different ways, there is one common icon individuals associate with Memorial Day: The poppy, said Eppley, who holds a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with “V” for valor. Read More