By Natasha Wilson
On Monday, representatives from Grant Memorial Hospice honored resident veterans at Pendleton Manor in Franklin.
Pastor Mike Funkhauser opened the event with a heartfelt prayer of gratitude and blessing for the veterans who were in attendance, followed by everyone singing “America,” led by Ann Funkhauser.
Residents were then shown videos of the World War II and Vietnam Memorials located at the National Mall in Washington, DC.
Veterans in attendance were representatives from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Each received a certificate of appreciation, and a Veteran pin was placed on their lapels.
According to the most recent census data available, West Virginia has one of the highest veteran populations, per capita, in the country with 10% of the total populace having served in the armed forces. An estimate of 8.8% of Pendleton County’s current residents served in active duty between 1942 and 2022.
The community is doing their part to try to make sure that the veterans of our county are shown respect for the sacrifices they have made for their state and their country.
The veterans honored at Monday’s event included Junior Murphy who served in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force; Ron Nordon, U.S. Army; Everett Puffenbarger, U.S. Air Force; Conley Raines, U.S. Army; Michael Yost, U.S. Army; Kenny Pittman, U.S. Navy; and Gus Bensenhaver, U.S. Army.
