Jack Anderson, commander of Lansford American Legion Post 123, gave the remarks during the annual Memorial Day service Monday in Lansford's Kennedy Park.

It was held in front of the impressive veterans' monument in the park.The service was preceded by a parade consisting of American Legion members, the Panther Valley JROTC, Panther Valley High School Marching Band, and Legion Riders Motorcycle Club members.Anderson told the story of Frank Buckles, the last surviving veteran of World War 1 on died on Feb. 27 at the age of 110.He noted that Buckles also served in World War II, during which he was captured by Japanese forces while working in the shipping business, and spent three years in the Philippines as a civilian prisoner.He worked on his farm until the age of 105.The master of ceremonies was Richard D. Pogwist, past commander of the Legion Post.Pogwist gave special recognition to Senior Airman Nathan Krajcirik of Lansford, who is home on leave after serving tours of Iraq and Afghanistan.The emcee said that just four years ago, Krajcirik, then a JROTC member, spoke at the same podium and told how he was going to join the Air Force."That young man left here as a boy," said Pogwist. He said as a result of his military service, he has returned as a man.The invocation and benediction were given by Ernie Kerestes, a chaplain of Post 123.JROTC members of Panther Valley High School who did readings were Ashlee Miller, Georgiana Butler, and Melissa O'Brien.The roll call of deceased veterans was given by Steve Banditelli, first vice commander of the Lansford AmVetsPogwist also gave a history of Memorial Day.