Lt. Charles Garrison Veterans Memorial

~ Hundreds pay tribute to America’s fallen soldiers ~

By MICHELE BURRIS

A bright day full of sunshine was the perfect start of what would become one of the most moving events in recent Adrian history. Last Saturday, the Adrian VFW Post #1935 held its annual Memorial Day Service to pay tribute to the men and women who have served or are serving in the United States military. This year, however, a team of four Adrian men and many volunteers made a Veterans Memorial Dedication a reality.

More than 400 people gathered at the Veterans Memorial for the ceremony. Brother Paul Burhart gave the opening prayer. VFW Post #1935 Chaplain Don Arndt welcomed the crowd, followed by the laying of the wreaths. Hannah Newkirk led the singing of the National Anthem as veterans raised the American and POW/MIA flags. Veteran George Bruto led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Missouri State Representative (District 125) Barney Fisher served as a fighter pilot in the Marines during the Vietnam War. He talked about the trials and tribulations in his wartime duties, and about the intense commitment of those serving the country. Barney’s life as a fighter pilot was the precursor for the dedication of the Memorial. Steve Hubbard talked about a fighter pilot who grew up in Adrian, served in World War II, and died in North Korea. Lieutenant Charles Garrison was a POW and MIA. His body was never recovered. The Memorial Committee decided that without a doubt the Adrian Veterans Memorial should be dedicated in Lt. Garrison’s memory.

Lt. Garrison’s daughters, Janis Curran of California and Karen Malan of Butler, MO, were in attendance. Unbeknownst to them, one of the finest moments of the ceremony is when Steve Hubbard and Don Arndt announced the dedication of the Memorial for their father who served in Korea more than 50 years ago. They were overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude. A memorial bench for Lt. Garrison has been placed in the rock house.

At the close of the ceremony, the crowd search for bricks of their loved ones. Bricks can still be purchased for anyone who has worn a military uniform. For more information, visit the Memorial website, www.vfw.adrianmo.com.

Pictured: The veterans salute (right) while Keri Lemon plays “Taps” and as Hannah Newkirk sings the “National Anthem” (middle). Far right: Don Arndt welcomes guests at the Memorial Service.