SCI Somerset paused Feb. 26 to remember the sacrifice made by Sgt. Mark J. Baserman two years ago. A memorial service was held in the chapel for employees, with the Somerset Honor Guard presenting the colors and a wreath in commemoration of Sgt. Baserman's End of Watch. Pastor Phil Maust offered a prayer, and Supt. Eric Tice gave an emotional speech on how Sgt. Mark Baserman's commitment to service was life-long. It was about how he served his country in the United States Army, he served his community with the East End Ambulance Service for many years and how he made the ultimate sacrifice in his service to the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Department of Corrections. He spoke of the many condolences and words of encouragement from law enforcement and corrections agencies from across this great country, and how we cannot help but be humbled—and loved.
Capt. Joseph Furman told of how the idea to create a scholarship in Sgt. Baserman's name come up during the planning of his memorial service, and from there how it grew and transformed from an idea into a reality. The fund has raised the $50,000 needed to make this an endowment with University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown in a little over a year. Furman also reported that during the 2nd Annual Sgt. Baserman Color Run—to be held at UPJ on May 2, 2020—the first scholarship will be awarded.
In closing his speech, Tice reinforced that moving forward, we will always remember the sacrifice that Sgt. Baserman made. We will continue to honor him and keep his family in our thoughts, prayers and deeds as we know we have the strength, support and love of a community, state and nation behind us. We are thankful for those who came before us and will always honor the sacrifice of those whom we have lost. Today, tomorrow and forever, we will remember Sgt. Mark J. Baserman. Our hero maybe lost, but he is never forgotten.