The National Museum of Industrial History dedicated an art piece to honor Pennsylvania veterans Sept. 26. Artist and Chief Petty Officer Joe Pisano attended, coming from San Diego where his studio is located, to unveil his work of art. The dedication took place in front of the Steelworkers’ Veterans Memorial at the front of the museum.

Nearly 100 attended, many of whom were veterans and former steelworkers, as well as a contingent of Bethlehem police officers.

NMIH manager of education and public programming Katie Rymon conducted the event. Calling the piece “a symbol of unity, friendship and resilience,” she noted that “veterans were a major part of Bethlehem Steel’s workforce.”

Pisano is an award-winning artist and the work of art dedicated, “Stand Together-A Veterans’ Flag” was created using 6,000 drywall screws. The unveiling revealed an American flag waving in a breeze. He says it is dedicated to “service members and veterans of all military branches.”

Captain David Christian (U.S. Army-retired) became the first veteran to sign the frame of the art piece with his name, rank, and time of service. Christian was wounded seven times in the Vietnam War and honored with more medals than anyone else in that conflict.

Following Christian’s signing, other veterans added their own signatures.

Ryman says the “Stan Together” artwork will be on exhibit inside the museum and remain mobile so that it may be moved to events for display as needed.