Election Day Cafe at TUMC open to all

Healthy Way to Grow program launches in Lackawanna, Luzerne Counties

First Posted: 11/7/2013 He&#8217;s been waiting a long time for this.
On Nov. 11 World War II Veteran Frank P. Onda, 87, lifelong resident of Exeter will be presented with his high school diploma.
The presentation will take place during the annual Veteran&#8217;s Day Program at the Secondary Center, 20 Memorial Street in Exeter.
Onda enlisted in the Navy just two days before his 18th birthday on April 18, 1944. He missed receiving his diploma at the graduation ceremonies held in June of 1945 at Exeter High School. He enlisted for two years and served aboard the USS Eldorado.
The USS Eldorado holds a special place in history for the American Flag. During the war, Onda escorted two Marines to the ship&#8217;s &#8220;cage&#8221; where supplies were stored. They wanted a flag &#8212; for Mount Suribachi on Iwo Jima. Admiral Richmond K. Turner, who was in command of the Pacific Fleet&#8217;s flagship, The Eldorado, ordered a larger flag to be taken to the island.
Onda says, &#8220;They probably took it to the LST (a tank carrying support ship beached at the base of Suribachi). It was our flag. I&#8217;d swear to that!&#8221;
And it was there the famous photo was taken of the American flag being hoisted and photographed by Joe Rosenthal.
Veterans will be treated to a Thanksgiving style luncheon at noon, followed by an assembly program honoring them in the gymnasium. Prior to the assembly, the Wyoming Area Band Ensemble will provide patriotic music. Veterans will all receive a certificate of appreciation for their sacrifice and service.
Some of Onda&#8217;s former classmates will be attending.

Honor long overdue