Leechburg honors veterans, dedicates 'Hometown Heroes' banners in Thursday event

Local veterans were honored during an outdoor Veterans Day tribute and banner dedication Thursday in Leechburg.

Mayor Wayne Dobos said he organizes the annual event because “it’s the right thing to do.” He rescheduled the event for Thursday because Wednesday’s forecast called for heavy rain.

Four Leechburg veterans were recognized by Dobos during the brief ceremony in Freedom Square on Market Street: Navy veterans Ufemio “Fem” Biagioni and Master Chief Nick Kepics, Air Force Master Sgt. Allan Tarr and Army Sgt. William Bollinger.

Leechburg Area High School’s marching band performed patriotic songs for a crowd of about 75.

Dobos officially dedicated the “Hometown Heroes” veterans banners, recently hung by local businessman Ray Voyten and his employees from Voytex Electrical. Dobos thanked them for their two-week volunteer effort in which they installed more than 200 banners in Gilpin and Leechburg.

Brackenridge resident Megan Buzzelli works in Leechburg and took a few minutes out of her day to watch the ceremony.

“It was heartwarming to see so many people coming together as a community to celebrate those who gave so much for us,” Buzzelli said.

Leechburg native and veteran Joseph Kovalchik attended in full dress uniform.

He said Freedom Square has special meaning to him because his Leechburg family roots run deep — his parents previously resided above Frank’s Place.

“I love being from a small town,” Kovalchik said.

Leechburg resident Doreen Smeal said seeing the elderly veterans honored was touching.

“Their dedication and commitment to their country is overwhelming. Watching Mr. Biagioni put his hand over his heart during the Pledge of Allegiance today made me cry,” Smeal said.

Biagioni, 99, is Leechburg’s oldest veteran.

He enlisted in the Navy at 20. He worked in administration and as an aviation storekeeper on the USS Boise.

Biagioni survived an air attack by the Japanese while at sea during World War II that killed 103 of his fellow sailors.

He makes the effort to attend annually, accompanied by his daughter, Karen Zimmerman.

“My father has so much respect for those that gave their lives,” Zimmerman said.

Biagioni still mourns the loss of his close friend Anthony, who was killed in the war.

“A day like this makes me think of my shipmates that didn’t make it,” Biagioni said.

He served four years, visiting the Philippines, Mediterranean and Italy during his service.

For Zimmerman, seeing her father recognized in his hometown is meaningful.

“We’re so blessed to have so many committed people in town,” Zimmerman said, “and their love for Leechburg shows.”