Les Campbell, Marvalee Higgins and Mo Campbell place flowers at the grave of their great-uncles, Bud McConnell and Clarence McConnell, both of whom service in the military. The trio were among a handful of family members who attended Monday's Memorial Day service at Pinecrest Cemetery.
May 28, 2024
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May 28, 2024 1 a.m.
Community honors those who died in service
The movie inspires audiences. The reality is even more poignant. Frederick "Fritz" Niland — the real-life Private Ryan — joined the military as did his brothers Bob, Preston, and Edward Niland. The Tonawanda, N.Y. natives were soon serving their country — Fritz and Bob in the 501 and 505 Parachute Infantries, Preston in the 22nd Infantry, and Edward in the Air Force.