On November 20, 1968, a deadly explosion occurred at Consol No. 9 Mine in Farmington. Of the 99 miners working that day, 78 never made it home.

Now, 40 years later, the families, friends and fellow miners of those who lost their lives in the mine gathered around the memorial site for their annual service.

Among the many speakers were Governor Joe Manchin, and President of United Mine Workers of America Cecil Roberts.

A special speaker was Spencer Tarley, a sixth grader from Marion County who's great uncle was killed in the Farmington Mine Disaster. He won a statewide competition with a project on the tragedy. He presented a speech on behalf of the fallen miners.

One main point all the speakers made was that the lives of the miners were not taken in vain. Almost immediately after the tragedy, federal legislation was passed to ensure the safety of miners across the country. Since the legislation was enacted, the number of deaths reduced by 9,000 in the following 25 years.