Norristown Remembers a Hometown Hero

For most, it is a day off of school. Many take a long holiday weekend. Most even get it off for work. But why? What is Memorial Day really meant to be?

Norristown is organizing an event to remind its citizens exactly what May 27, 2013 is for. This Memorial Day, the community is invited to attend a presentation in Hancock Square.

"Our Forgotten Past" will be the focus of this year’s annual tribute to Norristown native and American hero, Winfield Hancock. The ceremony will be presented by the W.S. Hancock Society in Hancock Square at noon on Monday, May 27.

The square is one many residents pass by daily, but likely think little of.

"Hancock Square sits right outside the Montgomery County Courthouse (Swede and Main streets) and contains the Soldier’s and Sailor’s monument which pays homage to those brave men from Norristown who served during the American Civil War," said Sandra Grubb, Executive Assistant of Norristown's Administration Department. "In keeping with the origins of Decoration Day and commemorating the 150th anniversary of the 1863 campaigns, we will come together for this solemn and patriotic day to honor their lives and all veterans that hail from our county both past and present."

This year, a special guest will also be attending the ceremony.

"Our special honoree this year and the recipient of the first ever Winfield Scott Hancock award is Joseph Horn of Conshohocken," said Grubb. "Joseph is a WWII veteran who served in the Anzio campaign and North Africa. After the end of the war he re-enlisted for the conflict in Korea."

Despite all he's done for the nation, the nonagenarian is still giving back.

"He is 90 years old and still volunteering his time in the community," said Grubb.

Music during the ceremony will be provided by the Norristown Chorale. A Narrative by W.S. Hancock Society Historian will be read, and Bruce Stocking will presesnt during the festivities with a wreath laying.

The public is invited to attend. For more information call 610-630-0912 or drop by the W.S. Hancock Society website here.