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These veterans got an honor of their own

By CRISTINA SILVA
Published November 11, 2006

SOUTH PASADENA - It began, like most humble plans do, with a simple wish.

The man believed to be the oldest veteran in Pinellas County deserved to be escorted by an honor guard, his neighbors thought.

But last month, when friends of 99-year-old Ralph Riccardi called around to find a veterans group to help out, they realized they were too late. Everyone was booked.

So residents at Bethany Towers in South Pasadena, home to hundreds of retirees, created their own honor guard.

"It was like, let's honor the veterans for heaven's sake," said Penney Beckas, 62, who rounded up four veterans who lived in the building for the job. "They have been practicing their little butts off."

A few weeks ago, a volunteer from an American Legion post in Gulfport showed the men how to walk with precision and carry rifles.

Beckas purchased some service hats and gloves for her new guards.

She also got hats for Riccardi, a Navy veteran, and neighbor Charlie Raysor, an 87-year-old Army veteran. Both served in World War II.

On Saturday morning, Riccardi and Raysor will lead the honor guard out of their building. A new flag will be raised to half-mast.

At nightfall, taps will be played.

Then Riccardi will head back into his apartment, his personal honor guard escorting.

Cristina Silva can be reached at 727 893-8846 or csilva@sptimes.com.

[Last modified November 11, 2006, 01:13:25]