[Origin of Memorial Day]

On May 5, 1868, General John A Logan, Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, issued General Orders No 11 from his headquarters in Washington, D.C. It read as follows:

I. The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet church-yard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but Posts and Comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.

We are organized, Comrades, as our Regulations tell us, for the purpose, among other things, "of preserving and strengthening those kind and fraternal feelings which have bound together the soldiers, sailors and marines who united to suppress the late rebellion." What can aid more to assure this result than by cherishing tenderly the memory of our heroic dead, who made their breasts a barricade between our country and our foes. Their soldier lives were the reveille of freedom to a race in chains, and their deaths the tattoo of rebellious tyranny in arms. We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. All that the consecrated wealth and taste of the nation can add to their adornment and security, is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let no wanton foot tread rudely on such hallowed grounds. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided Republic. If other eyes grow dull, and other hands slack, and other hearts cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of life remain to us. Let us, then, at the time appointed gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with the choicest of flowers of spring; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from dishonor; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us a sacred charge upon a nation's gratitude, the soldier's and sailor's widow and orphan.

II. It is the purpose of the Commander-in-Chief to inaugurate this observance with the hope that it will be kept up from year to year while a survivor of the war remains to honor the memory of his departed Comrades. He earnestly desires the public press to call attention to this Order, and lend
its friendly aid in bringing to the notice of Comrades in all parts of the country in time for simultaneous compliance therewith.

III. Department Commanders will use every effort to make this Order effective.

Borrowed [preserved] from Cathy Labath with thanks.
Tom Otto 6326
Olbear@mbay.net

- WWII -
My dad, Owsley Gregory was born in 1916 Wayne Co, KY to
Jefferson and Sophia Sharp Gregory. He grew up near Coopersville/Rocky Branch area and attended school at Bell Hill. He was the oldest son and after his father died he quit school and began working in the coal mines.
In the late 1930's his mother moved the family to Indiana.
During World War II my dad was an amphibious tank commander with the 13th Armored "Black Cat" Division, Co. "C" 780th Amphibian Tank Battalion. He served
from Dec. 5, 1942 to Jan. 11, 1946, mainly in the Philippines.
Medals Awarded:
Good Conduct Medal
American Theatre Ribbon
Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Ribbon
Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 2 Bronze Stars
Victory Medal
Battle Participation Credits
1 Bronze Star Southern Philippine Campaign
1 Bronze Star Ryukyus
1 Bronze Star Service Arrowhead
3 Overseas Service Bars

My dad's younger brother Clair Gregory also fought in WWII, but I have no info on his service.

My mom's brother Elbert "Ebby" Gregory (1912 - 1947) was the son of Emberson and Sally Lewis Gregory. Eb served as a machinist mate aboard the U.S.S. J. Wm. Ditter with the United States Navy in WWII.
Much of his service time was near the Philippines.
His ship was hit by a kamikazi plane near the end of the war.  Luckily while his ship was in New York for repairs, the war ended.
Eb never married. He was killed in a car accident in Warsaw, IN shortly after the war ended. He is buried in Rocky Branch, KY.

My mom's brother Edmund "Ted" Gregory (1922 - 1978) , son of Emberson and Sally Lewis Gregory served in both World War II and the Korean War. He was stationed in North Carolina with the 363rd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Sl. Bn. (SEM, Battery "B")during one of those wars.
Ted never married. He lived in Indiana and is buried in Pierceton, IN.

Submitted by Marilyn Gregory Fisher

I have many veteran ancestors, and I belong to the Daughters of the American Revolution. I joined through
Private George Rogers who was born Feb. 6, 1764 in Fauquier County, VA. He served in many battles including Cowpens and the Seige of Yorktown.  He died in Wayne County, KY, on November 28, 1858, and is buried with his wife,
Elizabeth Randall, on the  farm that he settled in 1799.  The DAR had a ceremony last October to mark his grave for his service. The farm remains in the family.
My supplementals for the DAR are Anthony Gholson, who served in Virginia, and is buried in Wayne County, KY. Also, Jesse Powers 1759-1840, buried in Wayne County, KY. He served in Virginia, too.Isaac Chrisman 1766-1829, from Wayne County, KY, served in the Cornstalk Militia.
John Dick, Jr., my grgrgrgrandfather, 1782, died August 24, 1869, in Wayne County, KY. He served in the War of 1812, and I am a member of the Society of the War of 1812 through him. Johm Dick, Jr. married Elizabeth Chrisman, and
they had 16 children.  She was the daughter of Isaac Chrisman. The Dick farm remains in the family.
Granville C. Perdue served in the Civil War, confederate side. He was born Dec. 14, 1839 in Clinton County, KY, and died June 15, 1908 in Clinton County.
My dad, Wendell Sherman Jones, served in World War II. Thank you for this privilege to honor these veterans. I have many cousins and other ancestors who served.  A warm gratitude to all of them.
This morning (5-24-02) I sent in some ancestors who served in many wars.  Thinking more about it, I would like to say that the Daughters of the American Revolution are honoring for 3 years the veterans of the Korean War for their 50th
anniversary.  These were special men and women who fought under horrible conditions. and, from what I have been told they were not even recognized by their own President Truman as soldiers when they first returned.
Recently, here in Brunswick County, North Carolina, the DAR  planted a tree at the new courthouse in honor of the Korean War Veterans.  About 50 attended and as I gave my speech these people were crying.  I hardly made it through
the ceremony.
One of the Korean War  veterans in Wayne County, KY , is a cousin of mine, Charles Eugene Dick, who was held in prison in North Korea.  There were several others from Wayne County, Last October, the Brunswick Town Chapter DAR from North Carolina  hosted the grave marking of Revolutionary War Soldier George Rogers in Wayne County, KY.  During that ceremony we were honored to give 50th anniversary pins to the Korean War Veterans who attended. It took place in the Pueblo area of Wayne County.
A very special thank you to all veterans, and especially those who fought in Korea. God bless you.
Submitted by Nora Hickam

My husband's grandfather, Jacob Anderson, born in Wayne County, Kentucky. He was probably the son of Jacob Anderson, Revolutionary soldier. Our Jacob Anderson served in the Civil War on the Union side. He stated in his military papers that he became ill while digging trenches, preparing to meet General Morgan. (I don't know if General Morgan ever showed up there) Jacob was never 100 % after that. He applied for a pension several times over the years before he finally got it a few years before he died. Jacob married Polly Jane Cecil in Fentress, TN. and raised a large family in Wayne County, Kentucky, near Mr. Pisgah. He moved to Hughes County, Oklahoma around 1910 . Jacob died in Hughes County in 1923 and is buried in Non Cemetery. He has a monument supplied by the government.
My husband, Thomas Anderson, grandson of Jacob Anderson, and four of his brothers were in the Army during the Viet Nahm conflict. Only Jake was in Viet Nahm. I know how hard it was for my husband to be away from family during that time. It must have been a thousand times harder for those in a combat situation during a war. My brother Jim Delozier also went to Viet Nahm. He was shot twice and was in the worst of the combat areas. He never got over what he experienced there and is probably still haunted by what he experienced and saw. (for those who wonder how my husband's grandfather could have fought in the Civil War, My husband's father was Walter, the youngest of ten children, and he was also nearly 30 years older than my mother-in-law)
Submitted by Stella Anderson

I think this is a wonderful idea.
My great grandfather, Dr. William H. Bryan, M.D., served with the VA 16th Cav during the Conflict in most of the important battles in Va. He enlisted from Cabell County, VA and settled in Parnell, Wayne County, Ky. He died 26 May
1927. He received his medical training from Barnes in St. Louis. He lived to be 85. His wife, Sophia Boehning Lamering Hawkins Bryan died, age 80, and is buried there inMt. Union Cemetery,  Central Union Church, Stopp,  Wayne, KY.
I believe he belonged to some of the CW Vets group in or about Montecello.
Thanks again.
Submitted by Bill Yoho

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DAVIS, John--  The Revolutionary War began in 1776, and John (1758) our ancestor, who was living in Bottetourt Co. Virginia, enlisted in the Army. During the early part of the war, he was in one battle and then became sick. He was
about to leave for home when his brother Thomas arrived and took his place. Before John could return, Thomas, who apparently liked the Army, enlisted for three more years. John then returned and replaced Thomas and
served until the end of the War.
  John was in the 7 th Virginia Regiment under Col. William McClannahan. He was with several different Generals, but all of those under whom he served were always with Washington, including General Lewis.  John wrote that he marched from Virginia to Boston to New York to Virginia. He must have been in each of Washington's victories and defeats. He wrote that he was once standing guard one night when a British shell exploded and blew off the barrel of his gun. He was stunned and his clothing was set on fire. His fellow soldiers extinguished the fire and he recovered. John was in the final assault on Cornwall at Yorktown where the British surrendered.
   After the war John and his eldest brother Robert D. went to Tennessee. Records of land transactions are found in Grainger Co.between Ephriam Guffey and John and he is said to have lived in Sevier Co. prior to 1798 when he moved to Wayne Co. Kentucky. His older brother Robert became a well known minister and the Chapel in Clinton Co. Kentucky (formerly Wayne) is named in honor of his son.
 (Wayne and Clinton Co.) Submitted by Dr. T.R. Hopkins

HANCOCK, Major-- He was mustered into the Patrick Co VA militia under his brother-in-law Capt. Jesse Corn  when he became of age near the end of the Revolutionary War.(Wayne and Clinton Co.  Submitted by Dr. T.R. Hopkins

HOPKINS, Dennis -- During the Revolutionary War he joined the Light Cavalry and rode against the Tories in adjoining counties where he "helped catch and hang and drive them out of the country".  His first enlistment was in 1780 and after
returning home he decided it was safer to be in the Army and he reenlisted. His pension was refused at first for lack of proof  (R5208NC) but was accepted in later years. Submitted by Dr. T.R. Hopkins

MORROW, Thomas --  He signed the oath of Allegiance in Henry Co. VA, 2 Sept., 1776. He is classified as a Patriot in Public Service Claims, Henry Co., VA; Certifcate 92. He is however listed as a Lt. in the Henry Co. VA militia .
(Wayne Co) Submitted by Dr. T.R. Hopkins

WADE, Richard --  After serving a term in the Army in 1777 he moved to Bedford Co. Virginia. He re-enlisted in Bedford Co. in a Company commanded by Captain Watkins to defend the frontier. He was sent to Boonesboro, Madison
Co. Kentucky and served under Daniel Boone. He arrived there on 12 October, 1778.
   The Fort ran low on salt and Boone took Richard and 27 others to Blue Licks to gather salt. They were surrounded and forced to surrender to the Indians led by Old Blackfish. They were taken to a village on the Ohio River and then to Detroit where they were sold to the English. Richard and John Brown were kept in the village until the corn was planted and
then they were also taken to Detroit and held until the next summer. Seven of  the prisoners escaped and made their way back to the Ohio River where the Maumee Indians recaptured them. They were taken back to Detroit, placed in
leg irons, put on a boat and taken to Montreal. After two years in prison in 1781, Richard, John Brown, John Morton, James Hack, George Finley and William Marshall were put to work on a mill-race from where they all escaped. They
made their way to Maine then to Boston and split up. Richard went on to Pittsburgh and down the Ohio River to Boonesboro only to find his Company fighting elsewhere. He stayed in Boonesboro and when he was needed to scout against a large group of advancing Indians, he simply said "no" and stayed at the Fort. A large battle was fought which the Indians won (Battle of Blue Lick where many of our relatives fought and died). He helped bury many of our soldiers and was then placed up for court martial for "refusing to fight". He was excused of all charges by General George Rogers Clark.  Richard was never
paid for his services but was awarded a pension of $80/year in 1833. ( See Pension Application)
    Daniel Boone was tried for treason for his activities against Blackfish and the British. Two Hancocks, William and Stephen, who were in the salt detail testified against him. (These were brothers of Judith, Richard's wife.) Richard did not testify since he was in prison in Canada at the time.
   After the War Richard stayed at Fort Boone for several years. He and Judith then moved to Wayne Co. Kentucky in 1801. This part of Wayne became Clinton Co. After Judith died on 5 October, 1810, Richard lived with his grandson  Richard (to whom he had conveyed land for this purpose) in Wayne Co. Richard died on 7 February, 1844 in Clinton Co. Kentucky.)  ( This death date is taken from sworn statements in his Pension Application.) (Wayne and Clinton Co)  Submitted by Dr. T.R. Hopkins

WADE, Elisha -- He was a veteran of the War of 1812. He was a Private and in the Battle of New Orleans he served under the command of Lt. Colonel Gabriel Slaughter. (Data from Bounty Land Application #6799. He was active in the militia and became a Major. (Wayne Co) Submitted by Dr. T.R. Hopkins

I have some to add to the list of Veterans and Servicemen both living and dead. I too remember the bombing of "Pearl Harbor" and wondering if the planes flying over head were ours or the enemy. A very frightening time and now is the time to honor those who came to our rescue , served and died to keep our country safe and free.

#1 Jonathan Pridemore, Revolutionary War--  my husband's great grandfather.

#2 George W. Pridemore, Civil War, 12th Infantry, Union side. From Pulaski & Wayne Co. Ky.-  My husband's  grandfather.

#3 James G. Stephens,  Civil War,  Company G-11th Infantry, Tn. Confederate My gg grandfather.

#4  J. Calvin Richardson, Civil War, 32nd Infantry , Union side from Whitley Co. Ky. my great grandfather.

#5 James R. Stephens, Spanish American War  my great Uncle.

#6 James Estil Richardson, USA Navy from McCreary Co. Ky.  My brother.

#7 Charles W. Richardson,   USA Army served in Okinawa, Japan  from Mccreary Co. Ky. my brother.

#8 James L. Richardson, served in Korea & Vietnam War, 1st troop to march into Berlin during Berlin Crisis.  From McCreary Co. Ky. my brother

#9  Luther R. Smithers, Served in WW11 from McCreary Co. Ky.  my uncle.

#10 Charles R. Khulenberg Jr, USA Navy  my son.

#11 Charles R. Khulenberg the 3rd USA Navy serving in Japan.  my grandson.

 Sincerely, Ann Khulenberg

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When I was a young boy,  I remember watching the TV and seeing the stories of the heroics of the young American soldiers during WWII.  I kept looking for my dad on those battle field images and was proud in knowing that even I didn't see him, I knew he had been there.

I used to say,  "Dad, someday I'm going to be a soldier too."  He'd simply sit quietly and say "Now, why would you want to do that.  I went there so you wouldn't have to go."

Now my father's gone and I did serve in the military.  But,  I have learned what he knew then.  We served in the hope and dream that someday this world would not be full of conflict, killing, and so much sadness. We come from a land where our freedom is our God given right that we will preserve at all costs.  We are united under one flag that represents us all, no matter our differences in race or creed.  Our love for our country and one another is born from the respect instilled in us by our forefathers who cherished this country and all that it stands for in this world.

May God bless us all as Americans.  May  we remember the men and women that gave of their time and their lives,  that the values that we have come to know as the American Way,   be preserved for the next generations.

Remember our Veterans.

Submitted by: redi <redi@aye.net>

These two brothers enlisted while they were living in Alva, Kentucky and served in WW II. Ted served on a Liberator bomber, was shot down in North Africa and died in a British field hospital. Earl served in the Pacific, was once buried up to his neck in a lava slide in Hawaii, served in the Battle of Letye Gulf and was one of the few in his company to survive a bombing raid.

Earl was my father and Ted was my uncle.

Veterans: Brothers: Theodore Forest Ramsey, born August 04, 1920 in Molus, Bell Co., KY; died May 11, 1943 in North Africa and Earl Clayton Ramsey, born February 04, 1923 in Balkan, Bell Co., KY; died October 05, 1992 in Fairview, Sanpete Co., UT.

Parents: Robert Earl Ramsey and Ethel Rose Freeman
Grandparents: John Marion Ramsey and Alice McClain Peters
                           Charles T. Freeman and Rachel Ellen Higginbotham
Great grandparents: Bailey Ramsey and Rosena Jane Rains
                                     James Fletcher Peters and Sarah Jane Turpin
                                    Joshua B. Freeman and Mary Jane Adkins
                                    Thomas M. Higginbotham and Dorcas Worley
I'd love to hear about your veterans and your genealogy!
Beverley Ramsey

Last December 7th was the 50th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor.  I was 7 years of age at that time and remember walking with my Dad down to the company store in Perry County, KY and hearing people talking about the news.  During World War II, I remember the daily radio broadcasts in the evening.  As the oldest child in the family, my task was to take the food stamps  and food order to the company store and brought the food home.

My mother, had two Anderson brothers in the war.  My Dad, had 9 nephews, in service. Six were Longs and three were Hambys.  Thankfully, they all returned.

We can be thankful Armed Forces Veterans and be proud of them.  They need better medical care and retirement.  Our present enlisted personnel need increase pay and better housing.

We give thanks for our Veterans.

Allen E. Long

What a terrific idea, Beverley. I would like to say thank you to you and your family for your veterans.  As we are all becoming more and more aware this past year, we owe them so much. Our area has contributed more than most people realize.

I would like to take this time to recognize my uncles for their contribution ... my mother's brothers. From five brothers and one
brother-in-law, the family represented all 4 major branches of the Armed Forces. Boyd Vanover served in the Navy, Lloyd in the Army -- he was in some of the major battles of WWII, the youngest, Carlis Vanover was in the Marines and their brother-in-law, Don Warman, was in the Air Force (His son and daughter-in-law are now serving in the Air Force). The fifth brother volunteered but was not accepted for health reasons.

The brothers were the grandsons (yes grandsons) and great grandsons of Civil War veterans, Henry & Cornelius "Neal" Vanover, who served in the war side-by-side. These brothers (some of whom are still living) are of the few people still living who had a grandfather in the Civil War.

I would like to go a bit further and recognize my own husband, Master Sgt. Dale Miles, who just returned from serving several months with Operation Enduring Freedom overseas with the Air Force National Guard and who will remain on active duty callup for an indefinite period of time.

A BIG BIG thank you to all our veterans and especially to all of you veterans on the CRR List this Memorial Day.  I know you don't hear that often enough. God bless all of you.
Sincerely,
Margy Miles

James Green, Revolutionary War soldier who ended up in Missouri with a Spanish land grant in 1797

Robert Green, son, Black Hawk War

Andrew Jackson Green, son of Robert, Civil War, served in Wisconsin Henry Perkins Green, son of Andrew, Company F, 7th Wisconsin Volunteers, Union Army, a member of the     Iron Brigate, wounded and lost an arm Robert Asaph Green, grandson of Robert, Union Army

John Burgermeister, my great-grandfather, was in the Union Army from St. Charles County, MO, where he    served every bit of two weeks before he was sent home with the measles.  He did draw a pension from his short service though.

Herman Hoehns, my great-grandfather, Union Army, Battle of Cole Camp, MO
Heinrich Bluhm, my great-great-grandfather, Union Army, Battle of ColeCamp, MO
Josephus Bass, my husband's grandfather, Union Army, service in KY
Lt. Peyton R. Mitchell, great-uncle of my husband, Confederate Army, died in TX in old soldier's home; when I received his Civil War Pension Papers, his papers were stamped "Confederate Archives", and I thought, only by the grace of God, go some of the rest of us.  What right did they have to label his papers "Confederate Archives"?  Likely, if I had had to
make the choice, I would have been a confederate also.  I felt so sorry for those people. Peyton's siblings were so       incensed with his choice that they made no edffort to see if he lived through the war.  They only assumed that he
had died during the war.  The poor father was confused about the whole affair.  He had sons fighting on both sides.

Robert M. Hoehns, my cousin, Marines, World War II
Woodrow Wilson Burgermeister, cousin, World War I
James Robert Wagenknecht, cousin, Korean Conflict

Cpl. James Lloyd Bass, my husband, Signal Corps, Korean Conflict

Bless them all for the sacrifices they gave for all of us so that I could enjoy my life in freedom.  We just have no idea what they wentthrough for all of us.

Dorothy B.
Smithton, MO

So often we forget those who made America free and have kept it so for over 200 years.

French and Indian War Veterans
Capt. Audley Paul - VA
Capt. John Mathews - VA

My Revolutionary War veterans
Audley Paul - VA
James Paul - VA
John Walker - VA
Samuel Boswell - VA
Abraham Chaney - VA
James Lamar - GA
Gen. George Mathews (Collateral line) - GA
Lt. Alexander Simeral - PA
William McGrew, Sr. - PA
John Peter Cribbs/Krebbs - PA (later killed at the Battle of the Wabash)

Civil War
James Madison Brown - TN and OH
Walker Blackburn Paul - TN
Albert Oscar Porter - IL

Spanish American War
Eugene Brown - TN

World War II
Clarence Ervin Brown

Korean War
Gerard Edward Ide (former husband)

Thank you so much for allowing me to honor all these brave men. Many of them had brothers and cousins who
served as well.

In remembrance,
SABRINA K IDE

I am honored to list a tribute to my Dad, Arnold GRIFFIS, b. 6 Jun 1916, McCreary County, KY, veteran of World War II and Korea.
I am humbled by the sacrifices and dedication of all of our veterans as well as their families and loved ones.

THANK YOU!!!!

Bonnie Griffis Lewis
Pensacola, Florida

From the family of Alonzo (B. 1900) & Oma Jane (Goins) Siler, there were four boys born.  They all served in the United States Army.    The first was Dewey W. Siler, Korea, 1951-1953;   Second was Sgt. Little Grant Siler, served in artillery in Viet Nam, retired after 20 years;   Third, Roy Alonzo, served in Viet Nam, Infantry, 1965-1967;   Fourth was Willie, served in Germany.  All four  men came home.

Following is what Roy Alonzo  wrote when he went to the army:
We got to Fort Jackson about 3 A.M.  We took all kinds of tests.  Then we went to the housing area.  We were put to bed about 4:30 A.M., then had to get up at 5:00 A.M.  We were marched about a mile away to eat, and then we were returned to a holding area.  We set there all day.  We would go take shots then come back to the shed.  Then I was sent to F Company to take basic training.  I had a good time there.  Marching all the time was really good training.  I finished basic and was sent back to Fort Jackson to Co. A, 17th. Sp. Bat.,4th. training Brg. to learn to drive light trucks.  I was there about 6 weeks and was then transferred to A.I.T. Company to be trained for infantry.  I went from there to Viet Nam, to Co. B,
1st. Bat., 2nd. Inf, 1st. Inf. Div., APO  SF  96345.  I worked a lot of operations with the Big Red One.
(Roy received several medals including the Silver Star as a result of his one year tour in Viet Nam.  He returned home to Whitley Co., KY in September 1967.   As a result of a back injury in Viet Nam, Roy  receives partial  compensation from the US Goverment.)

Some of my husband's ancestors were William Lankford Lawson who served in the Civil War. Isham Goins served with the 32 KY Infantry in the Union Army, Civil War. Grant Goins served with the 4th. Regt. KY Infantry, Spanish American War from 1898--1899.

I would also like to pay tribute to my brothers William Howard Jones and Joe Randall Jones who served in the U. S. Army.  They were sons of Robert R. & Mary Nancy (Partin) Jones.
Also I had a cousin Roy Leland "Chig" Powell who was in the Korean War and was missing in action.  He never came home.  Another cousin was in WW II, Clayton Fuson.  He was in the death march and he said that when they were captured that they were starved for days and the first thing that they got to eat was boiled potatoes.  He said that when they first started eating them that they ate them with the skins and all but after a while when they started filling up, they began to take the skins off.

On this Memorial Holiday, I want to thank all veterans for what they have done for us.  Without their sacrifice, we  would not have the liberty and freedom that we do.
                                                                                Mary Siler

I would like to add my tribute to my Dad, Johney "Cy Shepherd" Baughman a U. S. Navy Veteran of WWII.  He received two Purple Hearts for his duty in the South Pacific.

His only brother, George, also served in the U.S. Navy but was killed in WWII.  George Baughman has a Memorial in the Manila American Cemetery, Philippines.

Thank you Veterans!
Johnnie Mc

My grandfather, William Henry Manning, served as a Private in Battery A lst Regiment of Kentucky Light Artillery Volunteers in the Civil War (North) and was in the battles of Franklin and Nashville.  He returned from his duties in June 1865 to his home on Marsh Creek and lived there until his death in 1896.

During World War II my three brothers, Lewis Manning -Army, Maynard Manning - Air Force, Virgil Manning - Navy and a brother in law Jerry Newman - Navy, who served in the US military.  I remember my mother, Nellie, as she made her daily walk down through the pasture field to her altar -a pine stump.  Her sons all returned home safely.  Jerry was lost at sea in the last days of the war in the sinking of the USS Indianapolis.

My first cousin, William Cornelison, was killed in action in World War II on February 19, 1944.  He was a tail gunner in an army aircraft when it was shot down over Italy. Little Billy as the family called him had a very short and sad life.  His parents divorced and his mother died when he was very young.  He was raised by his grandparents and an aunt. He entered the service May 1942, probably before he was eighteen years old. I am touching his Purple Heart Medal right now and remembering.

The service and ultimate sacrifice of these and thousands of others provide us with the FREEDOM we enjoy today. May we never cease to honor their memory.

My husband, Orville Perkins, also a veteran (serving during the Berlin Buildup) is spending today working at the Bethel Cemetery and placing flags (supplied by our local American Legion Post) on the graves of the more than sixty veterans who are buried there.

Gloria Manning Perkins
McCreary County, Kentucky

My great great grandfather served as a scout for the Northern troops in southeastern KY during the time of the Battle of Millsprings.  His exploits ultimately cost him his life.

My father Robert E. Burton, Sr.  was in WWII and was in the Battle of the Bulge in Europe and told stories of meeting Russian soldiers at the end of the war in Berlin.  One of them gave him the red star from his hat with the hammer and sickle in it and I still have it as a memorable item today.

My dad's brother, Charles Warren Burton,  saw service in WWII and was stationed in Turkey with an Army Corps Engineering regiment building air strips for our bombers to use.

I was in the Army during the Viet Nam era from 69-71.
redi@aye.net

Page honoring family members Goodrich, Hipsher, Hipshire, Faulkner, Falconer, Rakes, Singleton, and Pardue who served  our Country's military during war dating back to 1600's- click through several pages of family members

http://www.kerrypardue247.com/familyveterans.html

Index of pages of website

http://www.kerrypardue247.com/menu.html
By Kerry Pardue

I wish to pay tribute here to two of my many veteran ancestors:

My father, Walker Allen Brents, Sr., born in Albany, Clinton County, Kentucky, Dec. 25, 1896. Served in the Navy in World War I and the Army in World War II. Highest rank, Lt. Colonel. Was a reservist called up in our first major mobilization for World War II, October, 1940; over a year before Pearl Harbor. Most men of his age and family status did not have to go. Died Fort Worth, Texas, Aug. 10, 1975.

The grandfather of the above, John Allen Brents, born in Clinton County, Kentucky, Aug. 15, 1833. Served in the First Kentucky Cavalry Regiment (Union), Civil War. Highest rank, Major. Survivor of many hardships and skirmishes in Tennessee and Kentucky, and battles of Camp Wildcat and Mill Springs. Author of "The Patriots and Guerillas of East Tennessee and Kentucky". Legislator, delegate Kentucky Constitutions Convention, county clerk. Died Albany, August 10, 1900, exactly 75 years before his grandson.

Thank you, and thanks to all American veterans,
Walker Allen Brents, Jr.

Christopher Stoffel Hepler: Revolutionary War with Capt. Kookens Co., Second Battalion, North Hampton Co. Militia.
Also in the militia in 1785.
Charles Greener: US Navy, St. Claire County, Ill
Samuel Love:  National Guard 1920s  Pulaski County, KY
Carl Roysdon:  USAF W.W.II
Eugene Roysdon: US Army, killed in France July 1944, Pulaski County, KY
Homer Roysdon, my dad: CCC-Camp Putney Harlan KY, KY NG-Somerset KY, US Army,
New Guinea Southern Philippines Luzon, Pulaski County, KY
Joseph Roysdon, me:  US Marine Corps, Vietnam
Matthew Roysdon, my son:  US Marine Corps,  Gulf War

I'm sure they're others that I have forgotten to mention, but that is my
fault not theirs.

I am very proud of our Country's service men and women from all branches of the military and our nations service men and women of Police, Fire and Emergency Services.  For all of them are often under paid and overlooked for the work that they do in service for us all.

This is a tribute to the Civil War veterans in my family:
Great-Great Uncle:  Jesse C. Lay (J.C. Lay) -Red Bird,  Whitley County, Ky
Great-Great Uncle: Lewis Lay - Marsh Creek Ky.
 Great-Great Uncle: William P. Lay - Casey County Ky. -- Scott County, Tennessee

Also, lets not forget those who served but were not "officialy" in the military:
Great-Great-Great Uncle Lewis Millard Baird Elk Valley, Tennessee
Who upon  arrested at his home in Elk Valley refused to swear allegiance to the South and was imprisoned in Salisbury North Carolina. He no doubt monitored Troop movements and aided the North as he had five sons in the Union army.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!
Gerald Lay

I also think that its a great idea to honor our ancestors who served in the war.
My great grandfather- William James Strocksdill/ Stroxtile served in the 30th Mounted Infranty, Company "K" . He enlisted in Lexington Ky, and was discharged from there accoring to his pension papers.  I'm beating the bushes looking for his father.
 Nancy S. Lloyd

My 5th great grandfather Francis Vannoy had service in the Revolutionary War.  He died July 26, 1822 near Barbourville, Knox Co, KY.

My relative  Captain William Anderson Dozier, died age 88 in 1904 in Umatilla County, Oregon. Served Union Army, 7th Kentucky Infantry.  His brother was Thomas Dozier who is my direct ancestor.

Cousin, Pvt. James D. McClellan ,7th KY Inf, son of Robison McClellan and his wife Elizabeth Donaldson, husband of Sarah Jane Dozier (dau of James Wm. Dozier & his wife Eliza Melvina Cain).  His brothers Cornelius and Moses also served in the Civil War with him.  Moses was killed at Vicksburg.

Pvt.Clarence Dozier,  (1892-1918)  World War 1, Prisoner of War Escort, died in France, son of my great aunt Perlina E. Dozier (dau of James Wm Dozier & Eliza Melvina Cain) is buried at ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY, grave 4221,
Section 18.  General John J. Pershing is in Sec #34 across Pershing Drive from Mr. Dozier.
This grave is near the Argonne Cross in memory of Our Men in France 1917-1918.

My cousin, Elmer Pascal "Pat" Dozier served in World War 2 and received a Purple Heart Medal.  Pat is son of Everett Luther Dozier and his wife Sudie Mae Brock.

My brothers Johnny Kerr served in the Pacific during World War 2 in the US Army and my brother Airman First Class James R. Kerr served in Korea., two tours of duty. James first entered military service in 1948, served with the 25th Infantry Division during the Korean Campaign.

My cousin, Melvin George Kerr flew Helicopters in Vietnam, received a bronze  star and a Distinguished Flying Cross.

My first husband Pvt. Arthur Jay Anderson Jr. ,  US Army World War 2,  served in the Korea Engineer Construction Det.  He operated a bulldozer, building the Kimpo Airport at Seoul, Korea.  He died in 1976 and is buried at Ocean View Cemetery in Clatsop County, Oregon.

My three grandchildren:
       Arron Carl Lowe, 101st Airborne, Gulf War.
       David Todd Smith, US Marines, Gulf War
       Lieutenant Heather Lowe Smith,  31st Construction Regiment, Port  Hueneme, CA.
       and near and dear to me, my brothers-in-law Warren Wilson, US Navy World War 2, and Bob Eberly, US Army World War 2 who fought in many battles in Europe.
from, Mary Ellen Kerr Anderson Holmes in Hillsboro, Oregon

My father, James Amos Corder, Jr. was in WW2. Because he worked for the railroad he didn't go to the Army until late in the war. Railroads were considered "essential industries" to the country. I know there were many railroad employees in Pulaski Co. and the surrounding area and I wish I'd asked Dad how many of his friends from Southern Railway were late into the
armed service. I'd love to hear from anyone who knows anything info about this.

Thanks,
Jimmie Lynn Corder (Ms.)

I have many ancestors that fought in just about every war since the first came here in 1620.  But there is one in particular that I would like to mention for they did not serve in any militia.

My ancestor was in Pennsylvania, in the area known as Clinton County today, but Lycoming County and Northumberland County back in the time of the Rev. war.  This ancestor had grist mills and boring mills.  The boring mills bored the barrells for the Kentucky Long Rifles that many of the militia men fighting for our freedom used. My ancestor is my 5th Great Grandmother Catherine Smith.  Her story was finally told in 1930 of her contribution to the Rev. War.  In Pennsylvania
in her honor there is a peak in the Nittany Mountains that bears her name. Its called Catherine's Crown.

Nancy M. Boyd

For This Site::::
Remembering my father William Woodson Williams WW1 VET
My ggg-grandfather William Williams RWV
My gggg-grandfather William Williams RWV
 

Also all the VIETNAM WAR VETERAN'S still living and those who gave their lives. Most everyone has at least one. I do.
Take a visit to their site::::: <A HREF="http://thewall-usa.com/">The Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Wall Page        </A>     or copy and paste http://thewall-usa.com/

Florence Williams-Cornwell
Glendale Heights, IL

A total of 17 Medals of Honor, and 70 Navy Crosses were awarded for the campaign of the Chosin Reservoir, the most ever for a single battle in U. S. military history. Chosin pitted about 15,000 allied ground troops, mostly the 1st Marine Division and Regimental Combat Teams from the Army's 7th Infantry Division, against 120,000 Chinese infantrymen concealed in the
mountains around the valley town of Yudam-ni. The Chosin fighters, by decimating and checkmating the Chinese forces  in
the mountains, enabled the evacuation of 100,000 North Korean civilians, (men, women and children) by sea, the last on Christmas Eve. Historians have termed Chosin the most savage battle of modern warfare. The CHOSIN FEW reunites allied survivors of the 1950 battle of the Chosin (Changjin) reservoir fought that November - December in North Korean
mountains near Manchuria. Founded April 22, 1983, and formally recognized as a Non-profit association by the Internal Revenue Service. The CHOSIN FEW has aggregate membership of 6000 (3917 active) as of November 1, 1998 from all U. S. Services. Plus former South Koreans (ROK), British Marine Commandos and Royal Australian Air Force members. The name stems from the fact that so FEW survived that were engaged in the Battle at The Chosin. Night before last, my husband and I attended an evening dinner cruise with  his fellow Marines,  Chattanooga's Chapter of Chosin Few, who served in
Korea during the winter of 1950 in the Chosin Reservoir Battle. (Some of this info is from  ttp://home.hawaii.rr.com/chosin/Purpose.HTM ) On Monday, we will go to the local National Cemetery to pay tribute to those
who died at Chosin and in other battles. If you see an old soldier, just say thanks. He will know why, and appreciate the fact that he is remembered at all.
Teach your children that the first doughboys had nothing to do with Pillsbury.
God bless each of you.
Bonnie White

With the need to stay within the policy of this list, I believe there are probably none participating who don't have an ancestor that did his military duty. With that in mind, I hope this serves to remind..

IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN...

It has always been the soldier not the reporter who has given us Freedom of the press

It has always been the soldier not the poet who has given us Freedom of speech

It is the soldier not the campus organizer who has given us the Freedom to demonstrate

It is the soldier who salutes the flag who serves under the flag whose coffin is draped by the flag who allows the protesters to burn the flag!

It is the soldier... It has always been the soldier!

--Unknown

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