VETERAN REMEMBERED…

Today, July 13, is the 50th anniversary of the death of Captain Richard Sroka. The family, now living in Colorado, posted a memorial to Richard in the Buffalo News, and we at St. John Kanty also remember him in our prayers and thank him for his service to our country. Richard was a grad of St. John Kanty School and St. Bonaventure University. Below is a link to the memorial entry that appeared in the Buffalo News:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/buffalonews/obituary.aspx?n=richard-m-sroka&pid=171711093

This entry appears in the Guest Book for Richard: Two years ago the people of St. John Kanty Parish Community realized that their flagpole was in great need of repair. It was felt that an appeal to the veterans of the parish would be a way to honor them and have the funds to repair the flagpole. We received an anonymous memorial donation in Captain Sroka’s name. Because of the anonymous donation our interest was peaked and we learned of Richard’s death in the Viet Nam conflict. As far as we know he was the only one with a connection to the parish who was killed in that action. Because of his sacrifice his is the first name inscribed on our Veterans Honor Roll (see photo). We are eternally grateful for the sacrifice so many have made for our freedom and we ask God’s blessings on them and their families… Another photo and further information about SJKPC can be found at www.stjohnkantybuffalo.wordpress.com

This is the Land of the Free
Because of the Brave…
May he rest in peace.

(click on photo to make larger)

Veterans Honor Roll hanging in vestibule of St. John Kanty Church

Veterans Honor Roll hanging in vestibule of St. John Kanty Church

Entry for Captain Richard Sroka, who was killed in action on July 13, 1964

Entry for Captain Richard Sroka, who was killed in action on July 13, 1964