By Maggie Downs
The Cincinnati Enquirer

An audience, including Betty Meyers of downtown Cincinnati (front right), sings the national anthem during a memorial service in honor of President Reagan Thursday on Fountain Square, downtown. The Cincinnati Enquirer/GARY LANDERS

Yan Krayterman grew up in a poor country, burdened by Communism, information control and intolerance.

The turning point in his life came in 1988 while he was watching television. On the screen, President Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev walked around Red Square during the Moscow Summit.

To Krayterman, Reagan represented everything he didn't have in Ukraine - democracy, freedom, a better way of life.

The next year, Krayterman's family immigrated to the United States.

Krayterman, 52, of West Chester, was among some 200 people who gathered at Fountain Square Thursday to pay respect to Reagan, the nation's 40th president, who died Saturday at age 93.

"I loved him. He was an example for me and should be an example for everyone," Krayterman said.

"This is the hero of my lifetime."

Political players from throughout the community were in attendance, including Mayor Charlie Luken, Cincinnati City Councilman Sam Malone, Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Allen and Hamilton County Commissioner Todd Portune.

"Reagan was one of the most beloved figures this country has ever had and is someone who transcends political lines," said Portune, a Democrat.

During the ceremony, which was opened by the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department's Pipe and Drum Corps, prayers were said and remembrances of Reagan were shared.

Keynote speaker Congressman Steve Chabot said Reagan came to the country's rescue when a hero was needed most.

"Ronald Reagan's optimism flowed from his strong convictions," he said. "He stood for clear, firm principles."

Retired Army Chief Warrant Officer William Miller, 67, of Anderson Township saluted the flag as it passed.

"I'm a little bit sad," he said. "But I'm a Christian, so I know Ronald Reagan went to a better place."

E-mail mdowns@enquirer.com