Marine killed in action, vet from Sewickley applauded in tribute

Sgt. Joseph Caskey, a Marine from West View who was killed in Afghanistan by a roadside bomb, and Staff Sgt. Joe Wadlow, a Marine who lives in Sewickley, were honored Thursday by the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania.

About 600 people attended the group's annual Tribute to Veterans at the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh's Music Hall in Oakland.

Caskey, a 2004 graduate of North Hills High School, was given the Chairman's Award. He was killed June 26, 2010.

Wadlow was named Veteran of the Year. He is co-owner of the Monte Cello's restaurants and founder of the Fallen Marine Memorial Motorcycle Run, which provides scholarships for families of Marines killed or disabled in action.

“We had a packed room,” said Robin Rectenwald, spokeswoman for the Veterans Leadership Program. “It was a night full of laughs but ended with a tribute remembering fallen heroes.”

Ross native Chris Jamison, a finalist on NBC's singing competition “The Voice,” performed at the event. Jessica L. Wright, former undersecretary of Defense for personnel and readiness, served as a presenter.

Proceeds benefit the Veterans Leadership Program, which helps veterans find housing and employment.

Tony Raap is a Tribune-Review staff writer.