Col. R. Bruce Ricketts Monument in Gettysburg National Park

Col. Robert Bruce Ricketts is a Hometown Hero.

No he wasn't a sport's figure, movie or rock star, or politician. He was a an ordinary citizen like you and I that answered his country's call to duty.

During the Civil War he enlisted as a Private, by the time the war was over he was discharged as a Colonel.

He was in many battles during the war and served admirably. Perhaps the greatest battle he was in was the Battle of Gettysburg. He led his artillery unit in successfully holding off the Confederates on Cemetery Ridge where his monument sits in his honor.

He was known as the "Shrimp" because of his small stature, but he stood head and shoulders tall as a an honorable leader known as a man of great integrity.

After the war he, his father and uncle bought up thousands of acres of timber land in Columbia, Luzerne, and Sullivan counties. He ran a successful lumber business and built a home at Ganoga Lake.

Most of his land today is known as Rickett's Glen State Park and the Lake Jean area in Red Rock.

There is much written about this fine man, a lot by local authors. The books can be found in local libraries, bookstores and at Gettysburg.

When you see all the corruption that is rampant, not only in Luzerne County but the state and Washington, take some time and learn about this man who answered his country's call and served proudly with honor and dignity.

This is one of the men responsible for the great country we have and are losing by inches everyday.

Stand tall and brave, teach your children about men like this. This is a hero they need to honor. Someone who has done something worthwhile.

Look back in history and remember what was sacrificed to have the freedom and liberty we enjoy. Then stand up and shout it to the rooftops.

You don't have much time, it is being taken away from right under your nose.

Be a Patriot. Save our great nation for our children.