On Friday, August 14th, the American Legion conducted a remembrance ceremony for all who served in World War II to acknowledge Japan’s formal announcement of their unconditional surrender on this day in 1945. The ceremony was conducted on the Court House lawn. Mr. James Bass began by recalling the unescapable affects the war had on the families of Smith County and the men who risked their lives to protect and serve their country.
It was then turned over to and led by Mayor Michael Nesbitt who paid tribute to the 23 men of Smith County who still live to recall the time they served in WWII. Those men include: Ivy C Agee, James L Bass, Jessie Beasley, Howard Bennett, William Enoch, Vestal Gentry, Gerald Givens, Hugh Wilson Glover, Neal Hackett, Elisha High, Glenn Hunter, Harold Key, Ed F McDonald, Clarence Nixon, Cornelius Otto, Freeman Overstreet, Dr. Gordon Petty, Joe Scruggs, James Silcox, Forrest True, Ed White, Osteen Williams, and I.H. Wilmore.
Mr. Fred Keith led the pledge of allegiance and Mr. Bill Woodard beautifully sang the National Anthem and also “God Bless America”. A wreath was placed at the base of the WWII memorial which resides on the front lawn of the Court House. Elder Charles Allen Gentry closed in prayer.
There were several county officials in attendance as well as State Representative Terri Lynn Weaver. When asked about the personal importance of remembering such a monumental day in history, Mr. Charles McCrary stated, “As a veteran who made it home, I have to give respect to those who died and those who made it possible for me to be here today.”
