Twelve heavy bomber crew members from PA were Prisoners of War in the Tokyo Military Prison when it was destroyed during an American firebombing raid on May 26, 1945. Volunteers with the non-profit Stories Behind the Stars (www.storiesbehindthestars.org) have written memorials honoring the twelve PA
Longtime Shoemakersville letter carrier Robert Oswald was honored Friday morning for 40 years of dedicated service with the United States Postal Service. The celebration, held at the Shoemakersville Post Office on Franklin Street, brought together colleagues, friends, and community members to recogn
A once-forgotten Cold War-era fallout shelter tucked into a hillside near the Greenhouse in City Park has been given a new lease on life. City officials recently guided members of the media on a rare tour of the underground structure, now cleaned and renovated for future use after sitting largely un
For Rick Perez, CEO of the Olivet Boys & Girls Club of Reading & Berks County, the journey from wide-eyed club kid to community leader has been anything but conventional. A Reading native, Perez’s connection to Olivet began during a pivotal time in his childhood, and over the years, that relationshi
No World War II battle represents the fighting spirit of the US Marine Corps better than Iwo Jima. In terms of its combat brutality and staggering casualties, it was the worst battle in the history of the Corps.The Marines’ 3rd, 4th and 5th Divisions led the assault of Iwo Jima with key support from
For many, firefighting is a profession. For Jesiah Newsome, it’s a calling. At just 28 years old, Newsome has already built an impressive career as both a career firefighter and a dedicated volunteer. As Deputy Chief of the Blandon Fire Company and Engine 3 driver for the City of Reading Fire Depart
When Chris Rothermel reflects on his 25-year career in law enforcement, it’s clear that his path wasn’t always destined for a badge and uniform. Before rising to the rank of Captain in the Reading Police Department, Rothermel began his professional life as an electrician, working union jobs in the t
As part of World War II’s strategy to liberate Italy from the Nazis, the Allies sent an invasion force of 36,000 troops with naval and air support to land behind German lines at Anzio and to cut off the Germans from their supply lines. A flotilla of thirteen LSTs (Landing Ship Tank) sailed from Napl
At just 21 years old, Gavin Milligan is already a familiar face across Berks County. Whether it’s through his role as business development manager for his family’s company, Advanced Comfort Specialist, or his volunteer service on over a dozen nonprofit boards and committees, Milligan’s commitment to
For Alexa Freyman, history isn’t just a collection of old photographs and forgotten stories—it’s a living, breathing connection to the community she calls home. As the creator of Berks Nostalgia, Alexa has spent the better part of a decade documenting the rich and often overlooked history of Berks C
One of the most heinous war crimes to occur in Europe during World War II was the mass execution of American prisoners of war by the Nazis’ Waffen SS troops of the 1st Panzer Division on December 17, 1944. The atrocity came to be called the Malmedy Massacre after its location at crossroads near the
For nearly two decades, Lynne Angstadt has been a vital force at Conrad Weiser High School, where her passion for both business and education has left a lasting mark on countless students. Originally an accountant, Angstadt’s journey took a transformative turn when she discovered her love for teachi
For Ryan Bradley, the road to becoming Reading’s Clean City Coordinator wasn’t a straight line. It wasn’t paved with job titles or polished resumes, but with lived experience, grit, and a passion for community betterment. Since taking on the role, Bradley has redefined what it means to keep a city c
Pennsylvania’s waterways are more than just picturesque escapes for anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts—they’re thriving ecosystems that require careful protection and management. Behind the scenes, Waterways Conservation Officers (WCOs) play a crucial role in conserving these aquatic resources
David Anspach is a man on a mission. As the Capital Project Manager for the City of Reading, his passion for transforming and rehabilitating the city’s infrastructure is evident in every word he speaks and every project he takes on. Anspach’s journey to this crucial role has been one of dedication,
In the Daniel Boone Area School District, where the communities of Birdsboro, Amity Township, and Union Township intersect, one individual is working tirelessly to inspire students, engage families, and foster a sense of unity within the district. That person is Tom Voelker, superintendent of the Da
For Kelly Barber, ballet has never been just an activity—it has been a calling. The Reading native’s journey from a young student at Carol Ennis Dance Arts to the Artistic Director of Berks Ballet Theatre (BBT) is a testament to her dedication to both the art form and the community that nurtured her
When it comes to serving and protecting, Sgt. Michael Bezner of the Cumru Township Police Department brings a blend of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to his community. In a recent conversation, Sgt. Bezner shared with me his journey, experiences, and the impact his career has had on his
Donald S. Robitzer Jr. grew up on the Village Greens Golf Course operated by his family for more than 50 years. As a boy, he spent evenings watering the course and days playing golf.Robitzer appreciates the tribute to his family’s legacy at The Residence at Village Greens, a senior living community
On Tuesday, July 2nd, City Hall Council Chambers resonated with applause and heartfelt tributes as Mayor Eddie Morán presented Lester DuGuay with a commendation for his 60 years of unwavering service to the youth of Reading. The ceremony, held on DuGuay’s 89th birthday, celebrated his extensive cont
The Berks History Center is thrilled to announce the acquisition of a rare Civil War artifact currently on display inside the BHC Historical Society Museum located at 940 Centre Avenue, Reading, Pa., 19601. The newly acquired object is a Smith & Wesson Model No. 1 Second Issue Revolver that was once
No World War II battle represents the fighting spirit of the US Marine Corps better than Iwo Jima. In terms of its combat brutality and staggering casualties, it was the worst battle in the history of the Corps.The Marines’ 3rd, 4th and 5th Divisions led the assault of Iwo Jima with key support from
Ronald and Kerin DeCarlo, along with Tim Gaston, are illuminating the holiday season for the 38th consecutive year with their renowned Lights on Elwyn, a dazzling display of over 30,000 Christmas lights. Located at 216 Elwyn Avenue in Sinking Spring, PA, the festive showcase debuted on December 2nd
Although WWIl’s tragic sinkings of the USS Arizona and the USS Indianapolis are better known, the worst loss of US life at sea from enemy action was the sinking of the HMT Rohna by a German guided glide-bomb off Algeria on November 26, 1943. A total of 1,149 passengers and crew perished, including 1
