Memories of Willow Grove Coal Miners Lives Through Anniversary Memorial
Dozens of people stood stoically around the Willow Grove Mine Memorial as speakers recounted the history of the explosion and how, through tragedy, the community continues to stand together decades later.
7 news reporter Mary Flavin travels across the river to see how people continue to uphold the memories of those involved.
Community members and coal miners alike came together to honor the many men who lost their lives in the Willow Grove Mine tragedy.
Saturday’s event reminds us why it’s important to keep these 72 men’s names in mind.
To honor those who’ve fallen as well as those who paved the way for better working conditions, wreaths were placed in front of the memorial followed by a reading of the names.
Ohio Labor Federation president Tim Burga says every day he recounts the sacrifices of those who came before us. “We will not forget the men and women of this great union, like the 72 miners we honor here today, who paved the way for all workers to bargain for a better life, no matter their occupation or where they call home.”