By BRANDIE KESSLER
Journal Register News Service

PHOENIXVILLE —A third-generation Marine who was wounded while serving in Iraq was honored during Phoenixville's second annual Marine Night, recently held in the heart of the borough.

"I got a phone call out of the blue," said Cpl. Ryan Harper of how he became the honoree at the Marine Night event, held Friday night. "I think it's cool because it's not an everyday occurrence" to be honored by so many people.

Barry Cassidy, Phoenixville's Main Street Manger, was the coordinator of the event. He said the idea came about last year as a way to honor veterans. Inviting the public to take part in the event is also important, as it gives them a chance to come face to face with real life heroes.

"The public ought to be aware and put a face on their heroes," Cassidy said. It's because of those heroes "that we can sit back and enjoy freedom.

"It's easy to watch a war on TV and hear about the casualties, but when you have a bona fide hero in front of you," it puts you in touch with reality, Cassidy said.

Seeing success with the event last year and again this year creates a "kind of a warm feeling inside; to honor people who have not only served their country but served with distinction" is an honor, Cassidy said.

Among those honoring Harper were his father and grandfather, both Marines.

"Probably the thing I'm most proud of is my service to my country, my sons' service to their country and my grandson's service to our country," said Harper's grandfather, Al B. Harper. He noted that he's dedicated much of his life to paying tribute to veterans, whether by attending events like the one held for his grandson Friday, or by attending military funerals. He said doing so is "extremely important."

"I never honor myself, but I do honor all other veterans," said Harper's grandfather, noting how proud he was to be at the celebration.

Harper's father said he hadn't had too many conversations about his military service with his son prior to his son joining the Marines in 2007. He said having his son deployed in Iraq, he experienced every range of emotion, including "utter horror and full-blown joy."

One of the most horrific moments was also one that exemplified Harper's heroism.

After just one month in Iraq, a 82 mm mortar round landed on the roof of the truck Harper was driving in the area of Ramadi. Harper was struck in his shoulder and back, and his scapula and some ribs were fractured. He also suffered a collapsed lung.

Despite his injuries, Harper managed to drive the truck another two miles to get medical attention for himself and the three others in his vehicle. Sadly, one of the men in the truck, Harper's battalion operations officer was killed.

Harper was brought back to the United States and underwent five surgeries among other rehabilitation he received.

Harper joined the Marines after working for a few years following graduation from Coatesville Area Senior High School in 2003.

"With anything you do in daily life there's danger. I knew the threat that was there and I was joining to pursue a greater lifestyle," he said.

Among the honors and awards Harper received for his military service are the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

In addition to family and friends, others who came to pay tribute to Harper included Congressman Jim Gerlach and State Representative Paul Drucker.

Gerlach said Harper "epitomizes what the American soldier is about," noting his bravery and dedication.

Drucker asked Phoenixville Borough Councilman Michael Speck to present Harper with a citation, noting Speck is also a Marine.

Speck was also one of the people who worked with Cassidy to come up with the idea for Marine Night, and said he hopes to see the event continue for future years.

Harper said the evening was "a truly overwhelming experience," and invited all in attendance to "drink, eat cake and have a good time."

Note: honorees for the annual Marine Night are selected after being recommended to Cassidy. To nominate someone for the honor, contact Barry Cassidy at 484-880-1530.