On Saturday June 6, 2015, seventy-one years after D-Day, Wild Bill Guarnere’s casket flag was raised over the grounds of the Delaware County Veterans Memorial, the future home of the eight-foot-tall bronze statue created by sculptor, Chad Fisher. The statue is expected to be unveiled September 19th as a permanent part of the monument on West Chester Pike. A spokesman from the Delaware County Veterans Memorial said the statue will “eventually will be incorporated into the Garden of Prayers, which with the Hall of Prayers is the second phase of the memorial standing as a reminder of the service local members of the military have given to their country.”
Gene Guarnere, Wild Bill’s son, commented that “What they have done here is beautiful and I like the fact that it is a place for all veterans.” He added that, “Although Wild Bill lived his entire life in South Philly, most of his family lives in Delaware County and will be able to visit him often.”
Wild Bill’s granddaughter, Debi Rafferty, is thrilled that the Memorial has an education program. She commented that “Gramps often went to schools and the education portion would make him very happy”.
Board member, Guy Fizzano, offered opening remarks and spoke about the importance of “remembering our military veterans, especially those that made the ultimate sacrifice.”
As the raising of the flag began, the crowd was quiet and peaceful. The veterans throughout the crowd immediately lifted their hands to offer a salute and held it until the flag has been raised to the top of the pole. The sky was bright blue and the drifting clouds looked like open arms awaiting the arrival of the flag. Of course, tears filled my eyes as I felt overwhelmed with emotion and pride for my country. But more importantly, I felt a sense of accomplishment both personally and professionally.
It has truly been an honor to take this journey with the Guarnere family. Watching their dream become a reality has taught me about perseverance, courage and leadership. I was proud to represent the Wild Bill Guarnere Memorial Fund, ParadoxLabs, and my father (a WWII D-Day Vet).
As Taps was played and the flag descended, many heads were lowered in prayer in tribute to Wild Bill and all who have fought so courageously to ensure our freedom. The ceremony concluded as Ben Sides, of the General Smedley D. Butler Detachment 741 Marine Corp League, presented the flag to Gene Guarnere and Debi Rafferty.
When we began our #BetterCommunities Initiative for 2015, I never imagined we would be part of something this incredible. We have been afforded the opportunity to be part of something much bigger than we had envisioned. Our partnership the Wild Bill Memorial Fund has become our symbol of hope, inspiration, and encouragement to continually reach out to those who have served, currently serve, and will serve in the armed forces, or otherwise put themselves in harm’s way.