By: Big Sandy Media Club students: Randall Camfield, Avery Mayberry, Toriana Heathcott, Miranda Keefe, Andrea Willis, McKenzie Baylor, Kathryne Lauritzen, Ryleigh Ralls, Serenity Guin, and Cheyanne Chandler, and Gabe Buhl
December 7th, marked the 77th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the day 2,896 soldiers, airmen and marines made the ultimate sacrifice. American Legion Post 102 sponsored a commemorative ceremony honoring those veterans who lost their lives in the attack. Three World War II veterans were present among other veterans. Mayor Brett Lashlee spoke for the occasion.
Charles Dyer, a veteran of the Vietnam War, was present and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Mike Lawler, public relations officer for the Legion, recognized WWII veterans in attendance as Ralph Rogers, Joe Whitworth, and Jack Farmer. Also in attendance were veterans of the Korean War, Doyle Stockdale and Tony Floyd. Ralph Rogers, who served four years and two months in the U.S. Army, is the last living prisoner of WWII in our area. County Mayor Brett Lashlee stated that 10% of Benton County has worn a military uniform. Mayor Lashlee spoke of the brave and honorable sacrifice that these and other veterans have made for our country. American Legion Commander Charles Turner and Mayor Lashlee placed a wreath at the court house monument to commemorate the event. GW Patterson closed the ceremony with a prayer.
