Local Soldier Honored For Ultimate Sacrifice In Vietnam War
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - He gave his life for our country during the Vietnam War and now, all these years later, the local fallen United States Army soldier is being honored.
It was a special day at the South Side Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6675.
People gathered for the renaming of the VFW and the unveiling of a colorful mural.
The ceremony was all in honor of Sgt. James Cryster, a South Side native and soldier, who died at the age of 20 in the line of duty in South Vietnam in 1967.
"This is a once in a lifetime thing, to walk into a place and see a dedication or just ride past and see his name on the side of the building. It just gives you chills," James' brother, Mike Cryster said.
Mike was there for the rededication along with other family members.
They say they're thankful for all veterans from all wars.
"This is under his name, but it's for everybody that's served. This is just one little honor that someone gets for this, which is a big honor for us," Cryster said.
The large mural displays images of Cryster and his father, who was also a veteran.
But, it also shows a lot more including an eagle and the Twin Towers.
The artists who created the work say the project started off small, but quickly grew into much more.
"I'm just so happy with the end result. I'm so glad that we did this. I feel like a piece of us is now here with the veterans and that we actually gave something back," artist Helena Davis said.
Cryster, who received two Purple Hearts will now have a spot here in his hometown honoring his service and sacrifice.
It's something his family and the artists are proud of.
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