'Hometown Heroes' honored in Alden

ALDEN, N.Y. (WIVB) -- For the community of Alden, the term "Hometown Heroes" carries an even deeper meaning.

Alden High School unveiled its "Hometown Heroes" memorial on Wednesday, honoring the 14 Alden graduates who have lost their lives in the line of duty dating back to World War II. 

Alden seniors and class officers, Sophia Mikulski and Sylvia Witmer, designed and manufactured this memorial, dedicating their time, talent, and hard work to honor these fallen veterans with the help of Alden faculty and staff. 

The cost of war is often measured in names or numbers, but it is important to remember that for many, the memory of such sacrifice is felt very personally. These heroes are classmates, neighbors, family members, and friends, and their lasting legacy will forever have an impact on those whose lives they touched and beyond.    

For one family, the loss of their loved one has left heartache that time simply cannot erase. Carole McCarthy and Chuck Kocher, former Alden residents, spoke on the memory of their late nephew and cousin, Robert A. McCarthy, who was killed at the age of 19 in Da Nang, Vietnam, while serving as a U.S. Marine in 1969. 

“We will never forget him,” Carole McCarthy said.  

Robert's name is displayed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. 

Michael Bennett, president of the Alden Central School District Board of Education, is a war veteran who knows the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

"I just think it’s important that these service members are never forgotten by their school and community," Bennett said. 

This memorial was two years in the making, and it is now a permanent addition to Alden High School, reminding those who pass by of the ones who gave up their lives for us.