The Scranton chapter of UNICO National donated $350 to the GAR Memorial Association’s fundraiser to return the Civil War sword of a North Scranton (then the town of Providence) native and Civil War hero, Lt. Ezra S. Griffin. Griffin was born in Bulls Head in 1835. He joined the 143rd Pennsylvania Volunteers Infantry Regiment to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Appointed lieutenant of his company, Griffin led through major battles, including Gettysburg and finally at Petersburg, Va., where he was severely wounded by Confederate shot. He died of his wounds a month later at age 29. Over the decades since and multiple moves the sword and its owner were separated. An auction house in Arizona possesses the sword and must sell it by June 12. Camp 8 of the Sons of Union Veterans is named for Griffin. The GAR is working to raise the funds needed to bring the sword back home. Anyone wishing to contribute to this effort can drop off a donation marked for sword acquisition at the GAR Museum, second floor, Marketplace at Steamtown, near Crunch, or through Venmo @EzraSword139. From left: Rob Baker, GAR; Mike Linko, president, Scranton UNICO; Paul Rogan, GAR treasurer; Bill Burns, GAR president; and Rich Ryczak.