CARBONDALE, Pa. — Yellow ribbons are tied around poles along Main and Church Streets in Carbondale. It's an effort by the American Legion Post 221 Auxiliary as a symbol of support for military members who are deployed overseas.
"In our minds, it's keeping alive the respect that we have for their families and those abroad," said Michelle Poyer, auxiliary secretary.
Students from Carbondale Area High School took time to help hang each of the 109 ribbons around the city, reflecting on why this is so important ahead of Veterans Day.
"I just believe it was really important to represent our veterans, especially in such a small town as Carbondale. I believe that they put up such a big fight, and it just needs to be known," said senior Caden Brennan.
"We wouldn't be here without them if they didn't fight for us. We wouldn't be able to get our education, any of that stuff, so I think it's very important to remember those who fought for us," senior Preston Casey said.
These students say they are seeing what's happening in the Middle East and worry about those who may be called to action for our armed forces.
"It is pretty scary to think about, especially for us and people our age because we haven't really been through something like that. So it is something to think about and worry about," said senior Kierra Borosky.
Coincidentally, Carbondale is also home to the 109th Infantry Regiment of the Pennsylvania National Guard. Poyer says it's fate they are hanging 109 ribbons, and that makes this effort even more special not only for the veterans but these students.
"To spark that ember of patriotism in the younger generation and keep it glowing so that, you know, they respect America, the country, the people fighting for us for everything that we are today," Poyer added.
Carbondale will also hold an honor procession on Friday ahead of Veterans Day.
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