03/18/2026
Mark Schuster built a legacy that will cary on thanks to his passion and plan for tomorrow.
In your preparations for this coming Memorial Day, please remember…
Memorial Day 2005
The picture above is from Memorial Day 2005, in front of the Crafton Municipal building. From left to right: John ‘Jack’ Gorman, Tom Witt, Clary Stewart, Chuck O’Mahoney, me, Bill O’Connell, Chuck Grube and Joe Murray. We had just completed the Memorial Day ceremonies which included the dedication of the Memorial Day plaque. This project set out to identify and honor those that had died while serving. The ‘Elders’ wanted to bring these heroes home and have all their names in one place. But this project became something much greater.
We became extremely close through this process. For 60 years, they had wanted to do this. And it could not have been done without their tireless efforts. They spoke often about the importance of ‘bringing them home’. They wanted to ensure everyone that lived here, went to school here or went to church in our community would be remembered. To be listed on the wall, one needed to serve and protect our freedom….but not return. There were so many sobering moments, and each young person identified conjured up strong feelings. But there was resilience. And laser focus.
Bring them home. Read their names. Never forget.
Of course, time moves on. All the Elders have passed, and we must make sure to bridge the gap, so that future generations will continue this tradition. We are fortunate to add the following two men to the Crafton Memorial Committee. I’ve gotten to know them both, as they been part of our Memorial Day event for many years. They will make sure this tradition is carried on to future generations.
Regis Patton III has lived in the Borough of Crafton for over 37 years and has been a part of many activities in the Community. Over his years of service he has helped with Crafton Celebrates, Memorial Day events, and Veterans Day events, as well as clean up days around the Borough. He became an Eagle Scout of Troop 147 in 2003 at the age of 15, Committee Chairman at 21, and later the Scoutmaster of Troop 147 at the age of 28. He continues to serve the Community of Crafton as Troop 147's Scoutmaster, helping at the Crafton Food Bank, and continues to help on clean up days in the Community. He is employed at the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium as a Zoo Keeper and Educator.
Reece Smith is a lifelong resident of Crafton and is passionate about service to our community. He is currently the Scoutmaster of Scout Troop 148, where he earned his Eagle Scout Rank. He was recently elected to the Carlynton School Board, serves on Crafton's Trail Study Committee, and has a history of volunteer work with the American Legion. Through his work with Scouting and the American Legion he has volunteered with The Memorial Day ceremonies, Crafton Celebrates, and the Food Bank. He is employed by Mariner Wealth Advisors as a Financial Planner.
For me, this project was special in so many ways. Some lessons can only be taught by example. It was a privilege to be part of this for the last 22 years. One can only hope that those on the wall are enjoying eternity – waiting to be united again with their friends and family. I will miss being part of this annual service. But I’ll never forget the lesson. It is ingrained.
Bring them home. Read their names. Never forget.
