Over the Labor Day weekend the sleepy town of Harrodsburg, Kentucky came to life. Through the diligent work of a local veteran and a supporting cast our country’s veterans and peacemakers were honored for their sacrifices. The centerpiece for the celebration was a nearly full scale traveling version of the Vietnam Wall flanked

by displays featuring World War II through the current War on Terror. Also prominently displayed were highlights of the horrific terrorist attacks of 9/11 that prompted heroic acts in Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C. and New York.

The townspeople also gathered for the dedication of the local bypass, naming it the Bataan Corregidor Memorial High

way. It received the designation in deference to the 66 local National Guardsman who were thrust into the teeth of the Japanese invasion of the Philippines. The group

endured captivity and the infamous Bataan Death March.
Estimates of between 30,000 to 50,000 visitors swept through town to pay tribute to the living and fallen honorees. Attendees hugged, laughed and wept but all appreciated the ceremony.
A personal highlight for me occurred during the keynote speak

er’s passionate address. As we peered towards the podium a friendly lady tapped me. When I looked at her she simply gestured at my hat then pointed at the back of her father’s cap. She whispered, “He was in the 101st too. He was in World War II.”
At the conclusion of the speech I beckoned his daughter and asked if he might take a photo

. She persuaded the nearly 90 year old humble hero, Mr. Hoskins, to pose with a fellow “Screaming Eagle”. We stood sid

e by side as the lens snapped on two men separated in age by decades but joined together by units as comrades in arms.
While we dismantled the Vietnam Wall I reflected on the events of the past weekend with introspection and reverence. I was proud that the military guard on site had been led by a young officer that was like a son to me. Captain Jake Kwiek had matured into a fine leader of soldiers.
The city had done well to honor those who merited it. May we continue to remember those who in times past have sacrificed and those who continue to do so.