Scott Oelslager

One of the guest speakers at the ceremony was Scott Oelslager, a member of the House of Representatives, District 48. He was proud to mention all of his family members that had served in the military which went back centuries. He comes from a family rich in military history to include those that served at Valley Forge, Civil War (both sides), World War II and Kuwait. He helped the audience transport themselves back in time to think about how the soldiers at Pearl Harbor felt when the bombs hit at 7:48 am when they were just getting up in the morning. He told the audience about several soldiers from Ohio that served at Pearl Harbor and had received the Congressional Medal of Honor, to include one from Massillon.

First Sergeant Brad Pietzker

1SG Pietzker also spoke at the ceremony. He served over 38 years with the military (4 in the Navy and 34 in the Army National Guard). While in the military he served two tours in the Middle East. He oversaw maintenance of various helicopters but mainly Chinooks. He was very thankful for his time in the military. He had mentioned that the military changed his life. He became an exemplary soldier and he found God. He was happy to dedicate his life and give back by volunteering with the Veteran’s Service Commission and honoring those that served.

There were also models that were brought by the Plastic Military Model Society (HOF chapter) and newspaper clippings from the time of Pearl Harbor in December 1941.

The ceremony was finalized with an 18 gun salute to those that were lost.