For 20 years, Tamaqua has set aside a day to pay tribute to departed veterans.

The local gesture of respect was resurrected from much earlier.

The solemn event, sponsored by Tamaqua American Legion C.H. Berry Post 173, had been part of the community since sometime after the Civil War. The tradition thrived up until 1940 when it stopped, perhaps due to the advent of World War II.

But through efforts spearheaded by the late Rev. James Greaser and others, the salute returned in 2000.

This year, not even a global pandemic could stop the show of devotion to those who served their country.

“We’re honoring our veterans,” said Thomas Isleib, post commander, on Saturday morning before leading a contingent of legion members wearing protective masks to two veterans monuments.

Some members of the group rode to the Rahn Township Memorial on East Broad Street seated inside a 1942 Dodge military vehicle. The WWII-era machine was driven by owner Brad Hosler of Tamaqua.

There, a seven-member rifle party armed with vintage M1s, fired of a three-volley salute, followed by taps.

“It’s an honor to take part in this,” said Tamaqua Mayor Nathan Gerace. “This shows how much the American Legion does for the community.”

Participants then marched to the veterans memorial located at American Legion headquarters on the 200 block of West Broad Street. Another volley was fired along with Isleib reading aloud the names of those departed over the past twelve months.

Typically, the legion would have staged a full parade followed by free hot dogs and refreshments at the post home, but legalities and safety precautions associated with the ongoing pandemic forced those plans to be scuttled, organizers said.

“We have limitations for capacity inside the building. We just can’t open up,” said Isleib.

Veterans associated with the Tamaqua American Legion who’ve died since last year are: John Schickram, Frank Morrison, William Sommers, John “Jack” Starry Jr., Gary L. Adams, Earl H. Boettger, David Rowlands, Daniel Kabana, Robert Zaraco Jr. and Kaye Leiby.

Additionally, hearts were heavy at this year’s ceremony due to the passing of legion volunteer Renee Sassaman who represented the organization at many events and typically played taps at ceremonies. Sassaman was a member of American Legion posts in Summit Hill and Tamaqua for 40 years. She passed away in October. Her husband Ed, of Tamaqua fire police, directed traffic at the Five Points intersection on Saturday when the legion unit marched along that route between the monuments. Other fire police volunteers were staged at various intersections along Broad Street.

Also taking part were Tamaqua Police Chief Michael Hobbs and Officer Andrew Seip.