By Stephen Smoot
“It’s another solemn day that we like to observe every year,” announced George Armstrong on the occasion of the “Our Five Boys” Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9666 annual Memorial Day observance.
He went on to add that “it seems like the world is in turmoil all the time now,” but Pendleton County and Sugar Grove specifically “has a nice camaraderie.” Armstrong also said that he had lived in Pendleton County for 21 years and “I have never found any place where I feel more welcome than here.”
The reception among the dozens who came to honor the fallen nationally and locally was much warmer than the day itself. Unseasonably chilly temperatures under a dull overcast sky could not compete with the fellowship enjoyed under the Richard Homan Memorial Park pavilion.
Phil Downs, post chaplain, offered the opening prayer, saying “You have blessed us with brave men and women.”
Jim Talerico came from the Clarksburg VFW to speak. Armstrong related that he had served in the past as state commander and “was here several years ago.” In that time, the VFW had looked into starting an area Wounded Warriors project and asked about support.
Talerico started a hair cut program at VFW events with the proceeds going to help the Potomac Highlands Wounded Warriors. Armstrong gently ribbed Talerico often during the event and vice versa.
“He’s just a tremendous fellow,” said Armstrong.
Talerico came to the podium, took the hat off of his completely bald head, and announced, “I took the first haircut and it never grew back!”
His tone then turned serious as he spoke to “celebrate the many men and women who died while protecting our freedom . . . there are no words that can properly reflect . . . the sacrifice they made.”
Talerico spoke of the shared values of those lost in combat, but also of getting to know the person behind each deed and each sacrifice. “They were unified in spirit and united in purpose and mission,” he noted.
One of his points lay in the fact that the nation owes its veterans more than just expressions of gratitude. Veterans should have quality health care, education and job opportunities, and the support they need to confront aspects of their service that wounded the body and/or the mind.
He concluded by saying, “Our destiny as a free people is entirely up to us.”
After Talerico concluded his remarks came the reading of the names of the fallen. Larry Flinn read names from World War I, Steven O’Toole those from the World War II, and Downs recited names from the Korean and Vietnam wars. All sat in quiet and somber respect as they reflected on young men’s lives ended too soon, but also sacrificed for the freedom of America.
This included Pendleton County’s Congressional Medal of Honor winner, Clinton Hedrick.
Armstrong returned to the podium and said, “Thank you to Allen Moats for his upkeep of the park. Allen, thank you for what you do.” He then added, “Thanks to each and every one of you for coming today.”
Next came the ritual laying of the wreath as part of the conclusion of ceremonies.
Maria Saunders, also from the Clarksburg VFW and a candidate for state chaplain, was invited to deliver the closing prayer. She said, “Let us never forget their names.”
At the closing of the ceremony, all were invited to eat from the generously sized submarine sandwiches, cake, and coffee. Armstrong cracked “Talerico will be first, I’m sure.”
The event then moved to a time of fellowship, storytelling and joking around, but none forgot the purpose for which they gathered.
