Freedom Park officially opens

BY JEN ARMSTRONG Contributing Writer

Eleven years after the tragedy that prompted the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, twelve soldiers who answered the call and sacrificed all have been permanently memorialized.

Family and friends were in attendance on Sunday afternoon in Camden where Freedom Park was dedicated to the twelve men from throughout Oneida County who lost their lives in combat since 9/11.

We are who we are because of their sacrificethey died so that might live and carry on the pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness, said Vincent Thompson during a moving address that paid homage to the brotherhood of protectors which included his son, Army Specialist Blair Thompson, who died in 2010 in Afghanistan at age 19. The loss of a soldier is a loss for us all, Thompson added, his thoughtful words prompting a standing ovation from the audience which included family members who traveled from as far as Michigan and Florida to attend.

County Executive Anthony Picente said the new Freedom Park will serve as a constant reminder of what each soldier and family sacrificed for the sake of freedom.

State Sen. Joe Griffo also spoke, reflecting on the events of 9/11 and echoing the words of former President John F. Kennedy. They attacked the symbols of America, but they could not defeat the essence of America, Griffo remarked, and after that day, these brave young soldiers answered the call.

Members of the New Hartford Color Guard played Taps before an audience that included veterans and Gold Star families from across Oneida County.

Theresa Oleski, mother of Marine Lance Corporal Blaise Oleski from Holland Patent, said even before the location of the park was announced, she had often visited the creek side site while in Camden working, reflecting on the life and sacrifice of her son while overlooking the water. Her sons name is now among the 12 etched into the granite monument in Freedom Park.

Local officials were in attendance, including town Supervisor Dan Yerdon and County Legislator Mike Waterman, along with U.S. Rep. Richard Hanna.

Camden Cycle Riders; the organization responsible for constructing the park; began a comprehensive fundraising campaign last summer, hosting memorial rides and a paver drive that brought in thousands in monetary donations. Chairman Frank Bergin said he was overwhelmed with the support and generosity.

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Freedom Park officially opens