Some time ago, Rep. Keith Greiner, a Conestoga Valley High School (CVHS) graduate, was at a meeting attended by Phil Hursh and Harry Wink. The three discussed a memorial for Sgt. Melvin Wink, who grew up and resided in West Earl Township, and was the only CVHS graduate killed while serving in Vietnam.
The conversation led to Greiner talking to the Pennsylvania state transportation committee in Harrisburg about the possibility of refurbishing an aging bridge that spanned the Conestoga River between Brownstown and Farmersville in West Earl Township and dedicating the newly refurbished structure to Wink's service. Greiner introduced House Bill 2425, and on Aug. 16, the bridge was dedicated in Wink's name.
Greiner was pleased with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation work on the bridge. "This is the first I have seen the bridge, and I think it fits in so well," said Greiner prior to the dedication. "We are blessed here in West Earl Township."
"I grew up just down the road in Upper Leacock (Township)," began Greiner as he opened the dedication service. Greiner acknowledged the presence of West Earl Township supervisors vice chair Harold Keppley Jr. and member Keith Kauffman. He also recognized Dave Kramer, who has been involved in an effort to create a community Vietnam Memorial for veterans. "He has worked hard throughout the county to acknowledge veterans," said Greiner, who also recognized Bob Zook from the Upper Leacock Township War Memorial Association in Leola.
"Sgt. Melvin R. Wink was a true American hero," said Greiner. "His sacrifice for the cause of freedom and democracy must never be forgotten by this nation, and he will be honored for all time in Lancaster County with this bridge dedication."
Prior to the dedication, Greiner spent time with Wink's family. "I met with the family and heard stories," said Greiner. "It was somewhat emotional (because) it was nice to reminisce, but I could feel the pain of the family."
Greiner went on to say that the purpose of the bridge was to "create a special memorial for an American soldier who left us too soon." "It has taken a lot of years, but (Wink) is finally getting the recognition he deserves," said Greiner. "Today will serve as a remembrance for the community and pay tribute to (Wink's) service to our country." Greiner concluded the dedication by asking Wink's family members to remove the covering over the sign that reads "Sergeant Melvin R. Wink Memorial Bridge."
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