By Traci Bishop and R. Chantz Richens
On Saturday, people from near and far could be found gathered at the Museum of the San Rafael to participate in and witness the Miner’s Memorial Dedication for Emery County.
Senator David Hinkins welcomed everyone and gave an introduction to the memorial. The colors were then honored and posted by the Huntington American Legion Post #73. All three verses of the “The National Anthem” were sung by the Huntington Glee Club, who encouraged the crowd to join in.
The Miner’s Memorial was then unveiled by all of the hard working members of the committee that made the memorial a possibility.
Cecil Roberts, United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) President, J. Brett Harvey who is the former CEO of Consol and David Lauriski, former Assistant Secretary of Labor all spoke during the dedication. After they paid their respects, committee chairpersons Dennis Ardohain and Frank Markosek spoke a few words.
The Miner’s Memorial Monument was blessed by Reverend Tim Lacock, Pastor Carl Sitterud and President D. Wayne Tuttle. The names of all of the miners from the Emery County area that have fallen while working where then read by community and family members.
“Amazing Grace” was performed by a group of women while a number of citizens participated in a white dove release. Hot dogs, popsicles and water were provided for free, thanks to the members of the UMWA.
