William (Bill) Ulysses Cox Parade Marshal The 151st West Virginia Memorial Day Parade Committee is honored to present William (Bill) Ulysses Cox as one of the 2018 Parade Marshals. He was born in Grafton, WV on May 26, 1926. He is the only child of Ulysses Sheridan and Hazel (Wolfe) Cox. In 1929 his family moved to York Run in Preston county where he grew up, helping with farming and harvesting and cattle raising. In 1943 Mr. Cox graduated from Fellowsville High School. He was inducted into the United States Army, 43rd Infantry Division and served from December 1944 to November 1946 in the Pacific Theater, Philippine Liberation and the Occupation of Japan as a Tech 4. When he returned from his service to his country, Bill worked at Musgroves Wholesale Grocery. He retired from Builders Service and Supply where he handled sales and purchasing. Upon retirement, he enjoyed hunting and built a large shop to pursue his hobby of woodworking. Mr. Cox spent 30 plus years as an adult volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America through the Mountaineer Area Council. He earned several awards including the Silver Beaver which is the top honor awarded to volunteers. Bill is married to Sarah (Kirby) Cox. They have four children: Susan Domico, Carl Cox (deceased), Jennifer Jenkins and Paul Cox. Their family also includes six grandsons and two great-grandchildren.
Emily Withers Parade Marshal The 151st West Virginia Memorial Day Parade Committee is honored to present Emily Withers as one of the 2018 Parade Marshals. Emily was born in Worthington, WV. She is the only known ‘Rosie’ still living in Taylor County. Rosie the Riveter has become a national symbol, as women everywhere look to her for strength. Rosie the Riveter is a cultural icon of World War II, representing the women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II, many of whom produced munitions and war supplies. These women sometimes took entirely new jobs replacing the male workers who joined the military. Emily was 20 years-old when she decided to make a trip to Akron Ohio with her family one Memorial Day weekend. Withers wasn’t planning to become a riveter during WWII, but on that summer trip to visit her cousins, she did just that. During her time in Akron, she built aircrafts at Goodyear. Emily did not even tell her husband details about the job, as doing so could compromise national security. It was a lot for a young woman to take on. After working at the plant for one-year, Emily came home to care for her mother in Worthington. She moved to Pruntytown in 1954 with her husband Dellet Withers and worked at the Shirt Factory. She has one daughter, Glenda Sigley, who is married to Ralph, and two grandchildren. In 2017, Emily was awarded the status of Distinguished Mountaineer by Governor Jim Justice for her outstanding service and dedication to her country while serving as a member of “Rosie the Riveters.” She was commended for her extraordinary contribution to the World War II efforts and her impact on the introduction of women to the workforce.
DELMA LEE ABEL Honorary Parade Marshal Delma was born on July 17, 1921 to Francis Marion and Lizzie Shriver Abel. Marion and Lizzie were farmers, but he also worked in the coal mine across the Tygart River from their home in the small community of Coffman, which was located one mile upriver from Valley Falls. Delma had three older siblings; Lloyd, Bertha, and John Warren. John joined the Navy and served in WWII, also. Delma worked on the family farm prior to being drafted to serve in the Army. He started working a team of hoses at the age of 14. On July 6, 1942 he reported to the Taylor County Courthouse for induction into the Army, then by bus to Fort Hayes in Columbus Ohio for one week. He was sent to Fort Bragg, North Carolina for basic training in heavy artillery for three months. He was in Battery B 6th battalion, 2nd training Regiment. Captain C. McClure was the commanding officer. He was sent to Fort Meade, Maryland for three more months training. On January 1, 1943 he was able to come home for one week leave prior to shipping overseas. Then he reported to Camp Kilmer, New Jersey for one week. His ship departed New York City on February 8, 1943, sailing past Staten Island and the Statue of Liberty. On February 22, 1943 he arrived in Oran, Algeria on the Mediterranean Sea where he was assigned P Company, 28 Quartermaster Trucking. His duties included driving a jeep in a convoy of 100 vehicles over the Atlas Mountains to supply fuel and ammunition to the front, 0ver 700 miles to near Tobessa, Algeria He served in this capacity until the conflict in Africa ended. The military doctors decided he needed his tonsils removed, so he was sent to an Army hospital in Constantine, Algeria for surgery. His recovery took one month, but there was a measles outbreak during this time and all patients were quarantined for an additional month. He passed the time by assisting in patient care when needed. Delma was then sent back to Oran by train. (This was when he made the crystal for the watch out of a piece of airplane windshield he found) He was assigned to the 164th Ordinance Bomb Disposal Company because his original unit was no longer there. He was in Bizerte, Tunisia in Africa for several months. He was shipped to Salerno, Italy where he was injured by shrapnel when the truck he was driving was hit by a large enemy shell. He was flown back to a hospital in Bizerte for treatment. He was in recovery for three months, and again assisted in caring for other patients. He was then shipped to Anzio, Italy; working on bomb disposal for three months. (This was where he made the eagle ashtray out of a shell casing) He was sent to Bagnoli, Italy which was a small town north of Naples, Italy. His company was disbanded into six-man bomb disposal squads, performing bomb disposals as needed for six months. He finished up his overseas service In Florence Italy for six to eight months. While in Italy he got to see St, Peter’s Cathedral, The Roman Colosseum, and many other interesting sights. Delma boarded a ship for home in Naples and docked in Boston MA. He was granted a forty-five day pass to go home. He traveled by train to Fort Meade where he spent one week and finally home March 15th 1945. While home the war ended and President Roosevelt died. Then back to Fort Meade for a few days and on to Camp Butner North Carolina for one week. Then across the country to Fort Lewis Washington for firefighting training. The train trip took over four days. He then served as a fire fighter at Idaho’s CC Camp for three months. Transferred to Camp Cook (now Vandenburg Air Force Base in CA) to serve in the Ordinance Storage Pool for three months until he was discharged from the Army on October 3, 1945. Home on October 7, 1945 after three days and nights by train. Delma earned the rank of Sargent and a Purple Hear, Engineer Emblem, and Good Conduct Medal. Back home, he picked up where he had left off, working on the farm for three years. Then he was employed by the Hazel Atlas Glass Factory where he met his wife, Ethel McCracken, whom he married March 23, 1950. They raised four daughters. He also worked for Monongahela Power Co., Tyco Manufacturing Company and as a watch repairman for Loar’s Jewelry Store. In 1968 he and his wife started their own business “Abel Watch and Clock Repair”. He was still able to repair watches shortly before he passed away. Delma Lee Abel went to be with the Lord on February 16, 2017.
Norman Blake Deakins Past Chairman West Virginia Memorial Day Committee Norman Blake Deakins was a past member of the West Virginia Memorial Day Committee. For several years he proudly served as Treasurer and Chairman. He graduated from Grafton High School with the Class of 1943. He then was drafted into the United States Marine Corp. and at the time of his discharge in 1944, he was listed as a Private First Class, rifle expert, amphibian tractor crewman, and swimmer. From February, 1944 to June, 1945, he participated in action against the enemy in the South Pacific at Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, Guam, Marianas Islands, and Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 12 in Grafton, where he served as Post Commander 1953-1954 and 1969-1970. He, also, was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 3081 and DAV Post 4018. He held the office of Grand Chef de Gare of the Forty and Eight in 1975. Norman served as a volunteer member of the VFW Post 3081 Honor Guard Unit having participated in 2,197 military funerals. He was especially proud of having worked on the committee that procured the lands where the Pruntytown Section of the National Cemetery is located. He was a machinist by trade working in Fairmont and Kittanning, PA. From 1967 to 1983, he worked at the Industrial School for Boys where he taught masonry. He retired in 1985 after working for the Department of Corrections at Huttonsville. Norman was a proud member of the NRA and was an avid outdoorsman. He looked forward to all hunting and fishing seasons. Thank you for your service to this Country and community. Rest in Peace “Iron Pants”.
Frank Cooley Department of WV American Legion Commander 2017-2018 Frank Cooley was born in Newhall, West Virginia and grew up in Marytown, West Virginia, where he attended schools in the area, before graduating in 1965 from Welch High School. He served in the United States Army from November 1965, until 1971 with an Honorable Discharge. He is married to the former Angela Diana Davidson and they have two sons Leonard and James and one granddaughter Samantha. He was employed at the HC Lewis Oil Company for 50 years and still works when not spending time with family and the American Legion. He and his wife Ann reside in Welch, West Virginia and they are members of the Anderson Memorial Presbyterian Church on Stewart Street in Welch. He is one of the Elders and Ann is in the Choir. He has been active with American Legion Post 8 for more than 20 years and he is a paid up for life member. He is a former member of the Color Guard, Past Commander, serves as Sgt. of Arms and Chairman of the Board of Governors. On the District Level, he served as Sgt. of Arms, Adjutant, and two six-year terms as District Commander. On the Department Level, he served as Asst. Sgt. of Arms, Department Vice Commander, 2000-2001 and 2014-2015. Asst. Membership Chairman 2015-2016; Department Membership Chairman 2016-2017. He works in local high schools with boys, who are planning on attending the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State Program at Jackson Mills, where he serves as a Senior Counselor. He serves on State and National Committees and attended the Membership Workshop at National. He is Active with Voiture #1171 40&8 in Welch where he is a Past Chef de Gare and still serves as Correspondence. He coached midget league football in Welch for 20 years, while working with the Welch High School Football Program. He is active with the Masonic Order, member of Beni Kedem Shriners, Past President of McDowell Shrine, Charter Member of McDowell County Shrine Clown Alley, Past President of the Mighty Welch Lions Club, served as Sight Chairman. Also, he served on Welch City Council for 30 years and as a Volunteer Fireman for 26 years.
Lisa Cadwallader Department of WV American Legion Auxilary President Lisa has been a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 40 years, having joined as a Junior member. Lisa belongs to Jackson-Perks Unit 71 out of Charles Town, WV. Lisa’s eligibility is through her grandfather who was a WWII Veteran. He was a member of the 595th aircraft warning battalion and served in New Guinea and Luzon. He received the good conduct medal, American Theater Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign ribbon, the Philippines Liberation Ribbon, Marksmanship badges and the WWII Victory Medal. Lisa’s father was a Korean War Veteran and her husband, was a Vietnam Veteran. Lisa served as Unit President during the 2004-2005 and 2005–2006 years. She has also served on special committees raising funds so our Unit could support and donate to many Veterans and helping others in need. Lisa started our care package program and bringing veterans from the local VA hospital in for dinner. Lisa took a large role in getting our Unit back on their feet. She encouraged involvement across all programs in our Unit. Lisa has been chairman on many of our programs; Americanism, Constitution and Bylaws, Past President’s Parley, National Security, and VA & R. At the Department Convention, July 2005 and at National Convention, August 2005, Lisa was honored with the Unit Member of the Year award. Lisa also volunteers once a month at the Martinsburg VA Medical Center. Lisa continues to serve in different officer and chairman positions. Currently she is serving as an executive committee member, National Security Chairman, VA & R, Constitution and Bylaws Chairman, and on the Past Presidents Parlay Committee. Lisa is working closely with the National Guard on Adopt A Family programs and other activities. Lisa served as District Americanism Chairman for 2 years, served on the Constitution and Bylaw Committee and served as 10th District Vice President during 2008-2009. Lisa has also served as National Security Chairman several times. Lisa served as the Department Children and Youth Chairman during the 2007-2008 year and worked closely with other organizations that support veterans and their families on a Welcome Home the Troops event. She attended the first National Children and Youth Conference in Indianapolis during that year. She served as the Department Community Service Chairman during the 2008-2009 year. That year our Department won a Central Division award at National Convention. Lisa served as the Department Poppy Chairman and the Department Chaplain during the 2009-2010 year. Lisa has served as the Department National Security Chairman, from 2011 - 2013. She served as Legislative Chairman during the 2013-2014 year and Public Relations Chairman for the 2014 – 2015 year. Lisa had served as an Education Committee member, 2012 – 2017. In 2016 – 2017 she served as Department Second Vice, Education Chairman and Auxiliary Emergency Fund Chairman. Lisa served as Department First Vice during the 2016 – 2017 year. Lisa has attended National Conventions as a delegate since 2007 and attended other National Conventions. Lisa served at the National level as a National Security Committee Member during the 2011-2012 year. She served as Central Division Auxiliary Emergency Fund Chairman 2013 – 2014, Central Division Leadership Chairman for the 2014-2015 year, and served as Central Division Community Service Chairman during the 2016 – 2017 year. Lisa had been team captain of her Relay for Life team, “The Patriotic Angels” for several years. She is also member of the Women of the Moose 948 and VFW Auxiliary 3522. Lisa was employed for 29 years one of the nation’s top 10 survey research companies, Westat, based in Rockville, Maryland. She worked her way up to a Sr. System Analyst, teaching herself most everything she learned along the way.
Todd Kingsbury Commander, West Virginia Veterans of Foreign Wars The 151st West Virginia Memorial Day Parade Committee is proud to welcome Todd Kingsbury the State Commander for the West Virginia Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was born in Hartford, CT, in 1962. He joined the US Navy in May 1981 and retired in May 2001. He made five deployments aboard the USS Ranger serving as a Plane Captain, USS Constellation (twice) and the USS Nimitz (twice) where he received his Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist Rating, the last deployment was in Desert Storm. He received two Defense Meritorious Service Medals, two Commendation Medals, and two Achievement Medals as well as many other campaign and deployment medals and ribbons. Upon returning from Desert Storm, Todd joined the VFW in 1991 becoming a Life Member (and now Legacy Life Member), and also became a Military Order of Cooties Life Member. He has been All State (twice) and All American Post Commander, District Commander of the Year (twice) and now serves as the Department of WV VFW Commander. After retiring from the Navy, he received his Class ‘A’ General Contractors License and owns Mid Atlantic Remodelers as well as a Certified Home Inspector with his company, Mid Atlantic Home Inspectors. Todd is a Professional SCUBA diver and enjoys traveling and hunting in exotic locations around the world. In addition to the VFW and MOC he is also a member of the American Legion, Life Member of the VFW National Home as well as a Master Mason. Todd has three sons and two grandsons and he resides in the Charles Town, WV area.
Pam King West Virginia’s VFW Auxiliary President Pam King was sworn in as the state of West Virginia’s VFW Auxiliary President in June 2017 at the VFW state convention in Charleston, WV. Pam is a life member (25 years) of the VFW Post Auxiliary 9738 in Huntington, WV. She joined under her late father who was an Air Force and Army Veteran of the Korean War, where he was injured on Pork Chop Hill. Pam has served the VFW Auxiliary on numerous levels. She has held offices as President, Secretary, and Treasurer on the local Auxiliary level. As District President in two districts, she served on several program chairmanships and Conference Chairman. She has gone through the department chairs from Guard, Conductress, Chaplain, Jr. Vice, Sr. Vice and then to Presidency. She loves the organization and is always there to help veterans and their families. Pam is a two time widow, to which both were both Vietnam Veterans. She is one of seven children and three of her brothers were veterans. She is the mother of a daughter and a son, and a grandmother to one granddaughter and three grandsons. In her spare time she loves to have outings with her family, travel, and decorate.
Jacob Batton D.A.V. State Judge Advocate United States Marine Corp., Retired Jacob was born on February 12, 1949, in Grafton City Hospital. He attended First Ward School until sixth grade, when he transitioned to Grafon Middle School to complete seventh and eighth grade. Jacob then attended Grafton High School, graduating with the Class of 1967. After graduation, Jacob joined the Marine Corp. on June 10, 1967, in Parris Island, South Carolina. He graduated boot camp on August 12, 1967, a member of Platoon 2008. After completion of boot camp, Jacob was assigned to the Third Recon Battalion, at Camp Pendleton, California. He spent the next twelve weeks training in recon. On November 20, 1967, he was assigned to the Third Recon Batallion, in Quang Tri, South Vietnam. Jacob served on at the Khe Shon Combat Base from January 31 until April 15, 1968, during the Tet Offensive. Jacob was wounded in Quang Tri, on December 28, 1968, and spent one year in Bethesda Naval Hospital, in Bethesda, Maryland. He was medically discharged from the United States Marine Corp, with the rank of Sargent E5. Jacob is the recipient of a Purple Heart, a National Defense Service Medal, a 5 Star Vietnam Service Medal, a Vietnam Campaign Medal, a Combat Action Ribbon and a M-14 Rifle Expert Badge.
Colonel (Retired) Douglas L. Flohr Speaker - West Virginia National Cemetary Sunday Colonel (retired) Douglas L. Flohr was raised in Grafton, West Virginia, and the oldest son of Samuel and Wanda Flohr. He was commissioned in the infantry upon graduation from West Virginia University in 1986. His first assignment was to the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment (MANCHU), 6th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, as a Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer and Battalion Adjutant. Following the Armor Officer Advanced Course in 1990. Colonel Flohr served as the Assistant S3 in the 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado. From 1991-1992 he served as the Company Commander for E Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, and from 1992-1993 he served as the Commander of the Long-Range Surveillance Detachment (LRSD), 104th Military Intelligence Battalion. From 1993-1996, Colonel Flohr served as an Assistant Professor of Military Science at West Virginia University. Following this assignment, he served as an Observer Controller at the joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Polk, Louisiana, 1996-1998. In 1998 Colonel Flohr attended the United States Command and General College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Upon graduation he was assigned to the Ranger Training Brigade at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he served as both Battalion and Brigade S3 Operations Officer. From 2001-2003, Colonel Flohr served in the 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Georgia, as the Regimental Plans and Liaison Officer. In 2003, he assumed command of the 5th Ranger Training Battalion (Mountain Phase) in Dahlonega, Georgia. In 2005-2007 he served as the Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Army. Following attendance at the United States Army War College (20072008), Colonel Flohr commanded the Ranger Training Brigade at Fort Benning, Georgia. During his last deployment in Iraq, he served as the Military Advisor to the Commander of the Iraqi Ground Forces Command (IGFC). Colonel Flohr’s education includes both a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Master of Arts degree in Education from West Virginia University. He also holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with seven Oak Leaf Clusters, the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge, and the Master Parachutist’s Badge. Colonel Flohr has been married to the former Christina Boyce, also of Grafton, West Virginia, for the past thirty-five years. Christina is a Registered Nurse. Their daughter CPT Rhianna Flohr-Thompson is married to Patrick Thompson, and is stationed at Fort Gordon, Georgia. Their oldest son, CPT Samuel Flohr is married to the former Courtney DeWitt, and is currently serving in Iraq. Their youngest son Benjamin, is a cadet in the United States Army ROTC Program at West Virginia University. Colonel and Mrs. Flohr have three grandchildren; Jackson, Wesley, and Adeline Flohr.
MAJOR GENERAL JAMES A. HOYER
The Adjutant General – West Virginia Major General James A. Hoyer assumed the duties as The Adjutant General, West Virginia Joint Forces Headquarters-West Virginia on 1 February 2011. As the Adjutant General, State of West Virginia, he provides command guidance and vision to the West Virginia Army and Air National Guard of more than 6,500 Citizen Soldiers and Airmen. He provides the overall supervision of the day to day operations and management of the readiness, fiscal, personnel, equipment and the real property resources of the agency. General Hoyer received his undergraduate degree from the University of Charleston and was commissioned in 1983 through a joint Reserve Officer Training Corps program with West Virginia State University. General Hoyer began his military career in the West Virginia National Guard as a Cavalry Officer. He attended the Special Forces Officer Qualification course and spent over 14 years with the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group. General Hoyer led the development of the West Virginia National Guard Counterdrug Task Force and the Joint Interagency Training and Education Center and its Center for National Response; a national level operational and training capability for critical infrastructure protection and consequence response. General Hoyer’s most recent assignment was Director, Joint Staff, West Virginia Joint Force Headquarters. EDUCATION: 1983 University of Charleston, Bachelor of Science, Management/Marketing, Charleston, West Virginia 1987 West Virginia Graduate College, Master of Science, Management/Public Administration, Institute, West Virginia 2004 United States Army War College, by correspondence 2004 United States Army War College, Master of Science, Strategic Studies, Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania 2009 Federal/Department of Defense Identify Management Certificate, Naval Post Graduate School ASSIGNMENTS: 1. December 1983 - May 1986, Assistant S-3/Chemical Officer, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 150th Armored Cavalry, Bluefield, West Virginia 2. May 1986 - May 1989, Detachment Executive Officer, Company B, 2nd Special Forces Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group, Ceredo, West Virginia 3. May 1989 - January 1994, Detachment Commander, Company B, 2nd Special Forces Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group, Ceredo, West Virginia 4. January 1994 - October 1996, Commander, Support Company, 2nd Special Forces Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group, Ceredo, West Virginia 5. November 1996 - March 1999, Commander, Detachment 1, 2nd Special Forces Battalion, 19TH Special Forces Group, Kenova, West Virginia 6. April 1999 - September 2000, Executive Officer, Headquarters, 2nd Special Forces Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group, Kenova, West Virginia 7. October 2000 - February 2002, Commander, 35th Civil Support Detachment (WMD), Charleston, West Virginia 8. February 2002 - September 2003, Counterdrug Coordinator, Headquarters, West Virginia State Area Command, Charleston, West Virginia 9. October 2003 - February 2004, Commander, 771st Troop Command, Charleston, West Virginia 10. March 2004 - February 2005, Deputy Commander for Installations and Homeland Defense, Charleston, West Virginia 11. March 2005 - August 2006, Commandant, West Virginia Joint Force Headquarters, Charleston, West Virginia 12. September 2006 - January 2011, Director, Joint Staff, West Virginia National Guard, West Virginia Joint Force Headquarters, Charleston, West Virginia 13. February 2011 - Present, The Adjutant General, West Virginia National Guard, West Virginia Joint Force Headquarters, Charleston, West Virginia AWARDS AND DECORATIONS: Legion of Merit •Meritorious Service Medal (with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster) • Army Commendation Medal (with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster) • Army Achievement Medal (with 2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters) • Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (with 1 Silver Oak Leaf Cluster) • National Defense Service Medal (with 1 Bronze Service Star) • Iraq Campaign Medal • Global War on Terrorism Service Medal • Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with Silver Hourglass and M Device) • Army Service Ribbon • Overseas Service Ribbon • Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon • West Virginia Commendation Medal • West Virginia Emergency Service Ribbon • West Virginia State Service Ribbon • West Virginia Service Ribbon • West Virginia Counterdrug Ribbon • West Virginia Distinguished Unit Award • Special Forces Tab • Master Parachutist Badge • Air Assault Badge •Thailand Parachute Badge OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS: 2012 University of Charleston, Honorary Doctorate of Law, Charleston, West Virginia EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION: Second Lieutenant USAR 8 May 1983 • Second Lieutenant ARNG 8 December 1983 • First Lieutenant ARNG 7 May 1986 Captain ARNG 4 October 1989 • Major ARNG 26 February 1996 • Lieutenant Colonel ARNG 3 October 2000 Colonel ARNG 1 October 2004 • Brigadier General ARNG 31 August 2007 • Major General ARNG 1 February 2011
River Sipes 6th Grade Taylor County Middle School They did their part with a brave heart. Their part was to sacrifice their lives for us. I can’t thank them enough. As you probably know we have two national cemeteries in West Virginia. The cemeteries contain burials of every conflict from the Civil War till now. The first cemetery was getting full so we needed a new cemetery. The new cemetery was dedicated on September 27, 1987. We honor all soldiers there on Memorial Day. On Memorial Day we should take a moment and think about what they have done for us. I can’t imagine what it would be like in battle. Soldiers have shed tears, blood, and sweat. We put flowers on graves to thank them, to show respect, and love to the soldiers that passed. Traditions practiced on Memorial Day were born during the Civil War. Following the Battle of Gettysburg, women placed flowers on graves of the fallen soldiers. A couple years later, women from Columbus, Mississippi decorated the graves of all soldiers. General John Logan issued that May 30, 1868 be observed as Decoration Day, the first Memorial Day. The date was picked because it did not fall on the anniversary date of a battle. General John Logan also spoke at the Arlington National Cemetery. The speech was followed by 5,000 people decorating the graves of 20,000 soldiers. Our parade is another way we celebrate Memorial Day. We celebrate our freedom, and celebrate the soldiers. I am glad we have generous and brave people to battle for our country. It is hard for the soldier as well as the family. They aren’t just soldiers, they are heroes. Several towns claim to be the originators of Memorial Day, but in 1966 Congress declared Waterloo, New York, to the birthplace of Memorial Day. So many people have risked their lives. About 620,000 Americans died in the Civil War. 116,516 Americans died in World War I, and more in other battles. Our country should show them respect. Every time you see red, white, and blue you should be proud and thankful. The next time you look at a national cemetery grave, think about and thank the fallen soldier.
McKenzie Setler Grafton High School 12th grade They Did Their Part With A Brave Heart Honoring the veterans of our country is a privilege we all should share, they did their part with a brave heart. Since I can remember it has been a family tradition participating in the Memorial Day activities. I would stand and applaud the veterans as I watched them pass by. Once I could march in the parade to show homage to our veterans for their duty and valor I found this a suitable tribute from myself and others. Finishing the parade route and walking through the gates of the first National Cemetery in Grafton, West Virginia made my heart melt. I walked the walkway that divides the cemetery into two equal parts to determine which of the interments I would place my flowers on. This experience brings the reality of what type of allegiance veterans held or hold for their country. The service of our veterans is what makes it possible for us to enjoy the freedoms we have and experience daily. The National Cemetery on Walnut Street in Grafton, is now closed to new interments. A second National Cemetery was opened in 1987 for interments, located on US Route 50, in Grafton, West Virginia, just 5 miles from the cemetery on Walnut Street. The new cemetery encompasses 89.7 acres and is the 110th National Cemetery. The entrance of this National Cemetery becomes an “Avenue of flags” over Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and other holiday when over 150 burial flags line the entry. A lighted flagpole tops the hill at 1,335 feet, it creates a 200 ft. vertical rise from the entry road to the cemetery’s focal point. The head stones are a sad reminder of what our veterans sacrificed for us to have the opportunity to live in a peaceful community and the freedom to do so. As I glance across the perfectly lined graves in a manicured landscape, I feel the utmost respect and honor for each of these veterans. The theme of the 2018 Memorial Day in Grafton is “They Did Their Part With A Brave Heart”. As you say these words listen and hear what they are telling you it will bring tears to your eyes for the loss of life. These words can also bring joy to your heart because we can enjoy our lives for the reason they did serve their country and gave all for us to relish our freedoms. I salute and honor all veterans from all branches of the military. I honor the fallen and honor the men and women who have served and are currently serving. Whereas “They Did Their Part With A Brave Heart” or are doing their part as they currently serve our great country.
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND CHURCH SERVICE Sunday May 27, 2018 – 11:00 AM
Church of the Covenant, 16 East Washington Street – Grafton, WV Pastor Casey Lieneman
COMMANDERS & PRESIDENTS BRUNCH Sunday May 27, 2018
12:30 PM Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3081 Mistress of Ceremonies Patricia Moore, Past State President American Legion Auxiliary Invocation Chaplin, VFW Auxiliary 3081 Pledge of Allegiance All in Attendance Brunch By VFW Auxiliary 3081 Introduction of Dignitaries Patricia Moore Benediction Chaplin, VFW Auxiliary 3081
WEST VIRGINIA NATIONAL CEMETERY Thirty First Annual Memorial Day Program Sunday May 27, 2018 – 3:00 PM
Musical Selections Taylor County Middle School Band Chase Kennedy, Band Director Master of Ceremonies Keith Barnes, Director West Virginia & Grafton National Cemeteries National Anthem Taylor County Middle School Invocation Randy Jennings, Chaplin VFW Post 3081 Welcome Keith Barnes National Cemetery Essay Contest Reading River Sipes, 6th Grade Taylor County Middle School-1st Place Middle School Division Choral Selections
Taylor County All-County Chorus - Christopher Dickey, Director
Introduction of Speaker
Keith Barnes
Memorial Address
Frank Cooley, West Virginia American Legion Department Commander Doug Flohr, Colonel United States Army, Retired
Presentation of Wreaths Memorial Salute
Veterans Organizations Taylor County Honor Guard
Taps and Echo Taylor County Middle School Band Madison Minard – Taps, Sierra Walls – Echo Benediction
VFW Post 3081 Chaplin, Randy Jennings
151st Annual West Virginia Memorial Day Parade Monday May 28, 2018
Line Up Begins at 9:00 a.m. - Parade Begins 10:00 a.m. (Vehicular traffic closed to parade route at 8:30 a.m.)
Flag raising at the International Mother’s Day Shrine - 9:00 a.m. Performed by the Taylor County Honor Guard accompanied By the 249th Army National Guard Band
Parade Co-Chairman: Chad Royce Parade Chairman: Scott Willis Parade Commander: Chad N. Proudfoot Grafton City Police – Robert W. Beltner, Chief Taylor County Sheriff’s Department – Terry A. Austin, Sheriff West Virginia State Police FBI Police – Lt. Joseph Ritchie Morgantown Police Department – James Smith II The Taylor County Honor Guard VFW Post 3081 Float United States Senator, West Virginia – Joe Manchin Band – 249th Army National Guard Band – Morgantown Grafton Fire Department Grafton Volunteer Fire Department Taylor County Emergency Squad West Virginia Memorial Day Banner
Division I Division I Banner Military Order of the Purple Heart – Chapter 724 – Bob Carr, Commander Riderless Horse –Steve McDaniel E4 Spc. National Guard Muffled Drum L Farm – Lisa Sapp Co-Parade Marshal – Bill Cox Co-Parade Marshal – Emily Albertine Kunz Withers Honorary Parade Marshal – Delma Lee Able – Daughters participating in his honor Honorary Parade Marshal – Bernadine Linn Caisson and Escort – WV Memorial Day Committee, Inc. Bartlett Funeral Home
363rd Military Police Co. Float – Commanders, Presidents, Officers, WV Memorial Day Committee Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 306, Morgantown, West Virginia American Legion Riders Float - American Legion Boys State Louis A. Johnson Medical Center, Clarksburg, WV – Hospitalized Veterans – Wesley Walls Morgantown Vet Center/US Department of Veterans Affairs WV Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Division Association – 1Sgt. Ret. John Fetty Band – West Virginia Highlanders of Davis and Elkins College – Bruce Dillon 115th Engineer Company VCC 336 Assault Helicopter Company Master of Ceremonies – John E. Whitescarver Speaker – Grafton National Cemetery Program - Major General James A. Hoyer Float - Tucker County Veterans’ Association Tucker County Veterans Association – 1944 Ford WW II Tucker County Veterans Association – G.I. Joe/1945 WW II Military Jeep Float – US Army Corps of Engineers, Tygart Lake Elizabeth Ludington Hagans – Col. John Evans DAR Chapter (Daughters of American Revolution) West Virginia Army National Guard – Fairmont Disabled American Veterans Chapter 45 – Morgantown/Fairmont HHB 1-201st FA – Military Truck
Division II Division II Banner 151st Annual WV Memorial Day Parade Theme Winner – Natalee Cartwright Band – Grafton High School – Christopher Rucker, Director Float – Rotary Club of Grafton – 2018 Grafton High School Honor Students 2018 Graduating Class of Grafton High School – Lori Shumaker, Principal Grafton National Cemetery Essay Contest Winner – High School Division McKenzie Setler, 12th Grade, Grafton High School Grafton High School Class of 1958 Grafton High School Class of 1967 Float – Grafton High School Class of 1968 Grafton High School Class of 1973 Float - Grafton High School Class of 1978 Float – Taylor County Association of Retired School Employees West Taylor Elementary School – Jamie Fisher, Principal Flemington Elementary School – Jeanne Gren , Principal Float – Anna Jarvis Elementary School – Heather Gunderson, Principal Shelly Stead, Assistant Principal Little Shepherds Preschool Float – Little Feet Daycare & Preschool Float – Taylor County Technical Center Taylor County Little League Float – Taylor County Soccer Association Float – Girl Scout Troop 1595
Heroes 4 Higher – Batman, Wonder Woman & Batmobile 304 Jeep Club
Division III Division III Banner West Virginia University Mountaineer Band – Taylor County Middle School Marching Band – Chase Kennedy, Director Taylor County Middle School Students – Matthew Keener, Principal Taylor County Middle School Golden Horseshoe Winner West Virginia National Cemetery Essay Contest Winner – Middle School Division River Sipes, 6th Grade, Taylor County Middle School WV Grand Commandery Knights Templar Float – Spirit of Grafton Queen’s Court Band – Davisson Brothers Band Float – 2018 Taylor County Fair Calico Queen and Calico Royal Court Truck & Trailer - Joe R. Pyle Complete Auction and Realty Service Float – Parkview Church of the Nazarene Stockert Youth Drill Team Taylor County Commission – Orville Wright, Rusty Efaw, and Tony Veltri Taylor County Clerk – Georgianna Thorp Thompson Magistrate Robert Lee Bolton III Car – Taylor County Assessor, Christa R. Kinsey Grafton City Council and City of Grafton – Kevin Stead, Larry Richman and City Council Float – GFWC Woman’s Club of Grafton State Equipment Company Band – Philip Barbour High School Band VFW Loyalty Day Queen – Haley Perks VFW Buddy Poppy Queen – Cadence Hope Andrews Float – St. Augustine Catholic Church Baton Group – Country Beauty Twirlers Float – Preston County Buckwheat Festival 304 Jeep Club
Division IV Division IV Banner Robert Mabe Band Mountaineer Military Museum Float – Arch Coal Leer Mine Complex Mountain Magic Gymnastics Team Miss WV Teen United States Jacqueline Shaffer McDonald’s of Grafton – Ronald McDonald Baton Corp – Barbour County Strutters Baton Corp Float – Beulah Baptist Church Dragon’s Den Mixed Martial Arts Tygart Lake State Park Foundation
Float – Grafton City Hospital Band – Pittsburgh Steeline Grafton Police Department – McGruff the Crime Dog West Virginia House Delegate - Amy Summers WV Senator – Randy E. Smith WV Congressman – David B. McKinley 501st Garrison Corellia Band – Billy and Bob Classic Country Band CG&J Garage and Towing, LLC Float – Grafton Seventh-day Adventist Church Float – Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center Baton Corp – Upshur County Twirling Academy Christian Sister’s Quilters WV Turkey Festival 304 Jeep Club
Division V Division V Banner
Bobby Maynard Band Rosewood Center/Genesis Health Care First Baptist Church of Grafton Taylor County Tie Man Baton Corp – Rolling Thunder Baton Corp Float – Oak Grove Baptist Church S&S Mobile Home Transport, LLC Osiris Shrine Tin Lizzie Patrol Taylor County Shrine Club Taylor County Shrine Clowns Desert Caravan – Osiris Shrine Upshur County Shrine Club and Shuttle Patrol Osiris Shriners Hillbilly Clan #154 Osiris Temple Mountaineer Patrol 304 Jeep Club
Division VI Division VI Banner *This division contains late entries/parade day entries not listed
Float/Dance Group – Rising Starz Studio, LLC Amedisys Hospice Float – Grafton – Taylor County Health Department Antique Car – Robert H. Beltner 304 Jeep Club Float – Dan Frasier (Bicycle Trailer) Jan-Care Ambulance Service Fellowsville Volunteer Fire Department
Flemington Volunteer Fire Department Thornton Volunteer Fire Department Taylor County Emergency Squad Grafton Fire Department
151st Annual Memorial Day Observance Grafton National Cemetery Monday, May 28, 2018
(The program will start following the end of the Memorial Day Parade. Parents are asked to pick up their children outside the cemetery gates.) Musical Selections Tolling of the Bell
Grafton High School Band
Christopher Rucker, Director
David Robison, VFW Post #3081
Master of Ceremonies John E. Whitescarver, Treasurer, West Virginia Memorial Day Committee, Inc. National Anthem
Grafton High School Band
Invocation
Pastor Casey Lieneman, Church of the Covenant
Welcome
Keith Barnes, Director West Virginia National Cemetery/Grafton National Cemetery
National Cemetery Essay Contest Reading 1st Place Winner – McKenzie Setler Grafton High School – 12th Grade Choral Selections
Taylor County Middle School 7th & 8th Grade Choir Chris Dickey, Director
Introduction of Speaker
John E. Whitescarver
Memorial Day Address Major General James A. Hoyer The Adjutant General – West Virginia Presentation of Wreaths by Veterans Organizations Presentation of Wreath by GHS Class of 1968 Memorial Salute
Taylor County Honor Guard
Taps and Echo
Grafton High School Band Taps – Cole McCartney, Echo – Areil Harris
Benediction
Pastor Casey Lieneman, Church of the Covenant
2018 West Virginia Spirit of Grafton Festival
Memorial Day Weekend Schedule of Events Friday – May 25th 5:00 – 8:00 pm 6:00 – 10:00 pm 6:00 – 7:30 pm 8:00 – 10:00 pm
Pool Party at Grafton City Pool Gambill Amusements Carnival Open Band - The Masons at Sprint Stage Band – Trial by Fire at Sprint Stage
Saturday – May 26th 12:30 – 10:00 pm Gambill Amusement Carnival Open 12:00 – 2:30 pm Shenandoah Load in and Sound Check 2:00 – 3:30 pm Band – Toad Hall 3:00 – 6:00 pm Barnyard Petting Zoo – Mother’s Day Shrine grounds 3:00 – 5:00 pm Community Picnic Sponsored by Arch Coal and Grafton Rotary Club 4:00 – 5:30 pm Band – Humble and Kind at Toad Hall 4:30 – 5:00 pm Thriller BMX Bike Stunt Team 6:00 – 7:30 pm Band – Jack Evans at Toad Hall 6:30 – 7:00 pm Thriller BMX Bike Stunt Team 7:30 – 8:00 pm Spirit of Grafton Queens Introduced at Sprint Stage Band – Toad Hall 8:00 – 9:30 pm 8:00 - 9:30 pm Country Music Supergroup Shenandoah at Sprint Stage Fireworks sponsored by Bartlett Funeral Home and the Grafton Area CVB following Shenandoah Concert
Sunday – May 27th Car Show – Sponsored by the Grafton Volunteer Fire Department Gospel Music 4:00 pm – Band – Crimson Reign at Tygart Lake State Park sponsored by the Tygart Lake State Park Foundation
Monday – May 28th 10:00 am – 151st Annual Grafton Memorial Day Parade 12:00 pm – 151st Annual Grafton National Cemetery Observance Other events ongoing throughout the weekend Annual Juried Art Show at Gallery 62 West Vendors, foods, and crafts Pony Rides on Saturday, May 28th Schedule subject to change, No pets or alcoholic beverages permitted. No skate boards or bicycles.
Acknowledgments The Mountain Statesman & Meredith Stach - Program Design and Division Lineup map design Mountain Statesman, Taylor Co. Photography Club and Marsha Maier – Photos for Program Monica Robinson – Program Correspondence support All businesses and individuals placing ads in the program and contributing to the Committee Grafton Fire Department Taylor County Principals, Teachers, Parents and Bus Drivers Taylor County Board of Education – Kathy Green, Superintendent Louis A. Johnson, VA Medical Center – Use of buses for WV National Cemetery Program VFW 3081 Auxiliary – Catering Brunch Taylor County Commission City of Grafton Police Chief Robert W. Beltner and Grafton City Police Grafton Floral R&R Services Sheriff Terry Austin and the Taylor Co. Sheriff’s Department Rick Reese, Butch Bias and Grafton Rotary Club – Helping with bag lunches and water DHHR – Use of Grounds Parade Day Save-A-Lot Greene’s Plaza Elsey Construction Jerry’s Restaurant – Use of Grounds Parade Day WV Department of Highways – Use of traffic control barricades Wreaths for Cemetery Programs - Sheila Larew and Brandy Mayle Baton Corps Judges - Kelly Duckworth Float Judges – Kenzie Kyle and Karley Kyle Nanny’s Ice Cream – Janie Bolyard Grafton Shop & Save Coffee Call – Elizabeth Cather Towers Tennant Association Prim & Proper 304 Jeep Club Hometown Pizza Dr. Sherry Knotts Harman Plaza and Blueville area businesses Robert Angus Chessie Federal Credit Union
2018
They did their part with a brave heart
official sponsor of
Heroes 4 Higher
ůĂƌŬƐďƵƌŐ ŵƉůŽLJĞĞƐ ƌĞ WƌŽƵĚ ƚŽ ^ƉŽŶƐŽƌ ƚŚĞ ϭϱϭƐƚ ŶŶƵĂů DĞŵŽƌŝĂů ĂLJ WĂƌĂĚĞ͊ ^ƉĞĐŝĂů dŚĂŶŬƐ ƚŽ ŚĂĚ ZŽLJĐĞ ĨŽƌ ŚŝƐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ WĂƌĂĚĞ ŽŵŵŝƩĞĞ ͊
Thank you for your Dedication and Service in the Defense of our Freedom
Taylor County magistrate Robert Bolton