Published August 29. 2025 02:45PM
The community is welcome to attend the Franklin Township Soldiers Killed in Action Memorial Service at 10 a.m. on Sept. 13 at Phifer’s Ice Dam.
The service first started in 1988 by teacher Larry Hill and his students at Franklin Elementary.
When the school closed in 2018 a new monument was erected by former student Tim Seltzer and the support of the Franklin Township Lions Club at the Phifer’s Ice Dam by their pavilion.
A new Memorial Service Committee was formed of former students and teachers to continue the tradition in honoring these Franklin Township heroes who offered the ultimate sacrifice so we may live in freedom.
This year’s participants are former and present Lehighton students and teachers and the Lehighton UVO.
The guest speakers this year are: former Franklin teacher Shirley Rodgers, former Franklin student Olivia Sheckler, and Weissport serviceman Keith “Jake” Boyer. Plus well over 30 former students and staff helping to honor these heroes.
A few volunteers to say a soldier’s name and war are still needed.
Any former Franklin Elementary students interested in being a part of the annual event can call Brenda Eckley at 610-377-7548.
The monument at Phifer’s Ice Dam, Franklin Township, that honors those killed in action during various wars. The annual KIA Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Sept. 13, at the Ice Dam pavilion. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
The names on the monument of those killed in action.