SCRANTON, Pa. — The sky above the Gino J. Merli Veterans' Center in Scranton was decorated with lights to pay homage and respect to our veterans.
"To kick off our 30th Veterans Day celebration, we wanted to do something spectacular for our veterans, so we decided to a display to light up the sky, and it's a one-of-a-kind display for a one-of-a-kind facility," said Vito Ruggiero, Commandant at the Gino Merli Veterans' Center.
Rather than using fireworks, organizers decided to enlist the help of a Texas-based drone company.
"I'm glad we can come out here and celebrate a day where veterans have risked their lives for our country. And we take it for granted every day, our freedom, and it's nice to come out here and show our appreciation for them," said Yosef Dandis, a Sky Elements Drone Shows pilot.
The sky was filled with images of the American flag, a flying bald eagle, and a soldier saluting. Sitting in the courtyard were friends and families of veterans taking in the sights.
"To bring them all the way from Texas to here, the cooperation and all that was done to have it, believe me, this will be in everyone's minds for a long time," said Harold Raybould, Veterans' Center Resident.
Since this show was outside, one World War II veteran couldn't delight in the sight due to the cold.
"Did I enjoy any part of it? The only part that I enjoyed is leaving out there and coming to that front door and getting warm," said Charles J. Tansits, Veterans Center resident.
However, the majority of those in attendance loved the display.
"This was probably one of the most amazing things they've had here in Scranton. It brought a tear to my eye to see the Veterans smile and clap, and no fireworks, so no noise. It was just a great show for the veterans," recalled Brian Machowski, Veterans' Center volunteer.