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June 23, 2006

State House, Senate honor fallen soldier Veverka

By Jeff Greenburg

JAMESTOWN — Saying Army Staff Sgt. David M. Veverka epitomized what a hero is supposed to be, state Rep. Rod E. Wilt guided a resolution through the state House Wednesday that honored the memory of the fallen soldier.

Veverka, a 1999 Jamestown High graduate, was killed May 6 while serving with the Maine National Guard in Iraq. He was 25. Veverka was credited with saving the life of a fellow serviceman, Pvt. Chris Fraser, when their convoy was hit by a roadside bomb.

Fraser, of Windsor, Maine; Sgt. Dale James Kelly Jr., 48, of Richmond, Maine; and Veverka were riding in the front truck of a convoy when they came upon a man with two young children. The man apparently threw a bomb at the truck, which exploded just as Veverka pulled Fraser down into the vehicle.

“David is the epitome of the term ‘hero,’ ” said Wilt, of Sugar Grove Township, R-17th District. “His sacrifice will forever be remembered as one of bravery, indomitable courage and voracious spirit. I am honored to have had such a wonderful young man come from my home county and will forever be grateful for the important work that he accomplished during his time here on Earth.”

State Sen. Robert D. “Bob” Robbins, Salem Township, R-50th District, presented a similar resolution in the Senate.

“David is what continues to make this country special, a selfless servant,” Robbins said. “The world is indeed a better place due to the life of Staff Sgt. David Veverka.”

Veverka’s mother, Carol Polley of Jamestown, and father, Ronald Veverka of Sharon, thanked the Legislature for its action.

“We appreciate the General Assembly taking the time to pass the condolence resolution honoring David’s service to his country,” Mrs. Polley said Thursday. “We are grateful to Rep. Wilt and Sen. Robbins for their commitment in remembering the sacrifice of our fallen soldiers.”

Ronald, who attended Wednesday’s presentation in Harrisburg with his son and David’s brother, Keith Veverka, agreed. Although Ronald admitted “it was a tough day,” he said the presentation was very nice.

Ronald was also quick to extend his thanks to everyone in the community who has supported the family during this difficult time.

“It helps with all the support,” he said.

Robbins said it was important to remember Veverka, noting that a fund has been established in his memory. Contributions to the David Veverka Memorial Fund, which will fund a scholarship for a college-bound Jamestown High student, can be made at the Jamestown branch of First National Bank, 126 Liberty St.

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