WEST PITTSTON Those gathered to commemorate a flowering pear tree near Montgomery Avenue Elementary School in memory of Cpl. Bryon Dickson II on Monday remembered him as a friend, a son, a classmate and a fellow trooper.

Those who attended Wyoming Area schools with him remembered him as forever "a Warrior," a fitting title for a man who lived his life to protect others.All remembered Dickson as a man of integrity, purpose and dignity, but also someone who was quick to share a laugh or to comfort his children.Dickson, killed in a sniper's ambush at the Blooming Grove state police barracks in September, was remembered by fellow troopers who said Dickson diligently sought justice, but was also capable of deep humility and compassion."He would say that we're fussing too much," said state trooper Mark Sadowski, "but it's wonderful to see how liked and how loved he was by others."The commemoration was the brain child of Chrissy Campenni, who graduated with Dickson from Wyoming Area in 1994 and now teaches for the district."We just want to keep the memory of Bryon alive," she said. "I'm overwhelmed with the outpouring of support shown here today."Reflections of that support, Campenni said, came in relatively simple ways."Today, a parent seeing the tree and the plaque offered three flowering plants," she said. "Together we lovingly planted those flowers around the memorial."Principal Robert Kaluzavich lauded the district for being quick to respond to concerns of students and alumni, many of whom wanted to honor Dickson."We are a very caring school community," he said.Mother Darla Dickson credited attendees, the school district and state troopers with remembering her son in a way that would truly honor him.She continues to be outspoken about her faith and her forgiveness of Eric Frein, who stands accused of her son's murder."To me, unforgiveness was not an option," she said. "God forgives me of things every day, and I want to extend that forgiveness to others."She is very clear, however, that forgiveness does not preclude her from seeking justice for Frein."I believe that Eric Frein should be punished according to the law," she said. "But my love for Bryon is far greater than any hatred I might have had for Frein."She also reflected on the grief of Frein's parents."I can only imagine what they are going through," she said.Addressing the crowd, which included several state troopers, she expressed gratitude for the brotherhood which surrounded him in life and now honors him in death."These troopers serve with great commitment," she said, "risking their own lives."Jill McCoy, who also graduated from Wyoming Area in 1994, also played another important role in Bryon Dickson's life. She was and is his children's pediatrician.Speaking to his role as a parent to Bryon III, now 8, and Adam, now 6, she said she remembers Dickson coming to many "well visits" the children had and, despite a busy schedule, being very involved in their lives.Looking back on his life, Darla Dickson is resolute in remaining positive and remembering her son in a way that will benefit others."Life isn't perfect, we don't seek perfection. But, we do seek excellence," she said, standing near the tree which will help others remember the life of her son which, by all accounts, was remarkable.