|
|
| Tuesday, February 9, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
Marketplace
|
|
Sections
|
|
Service Center
|
|
 |
|
Langston to unveil WWII memorial
Published November 5, 2009
It wasn’t an easy project. In fact, many would have said it was impossible and walked away.
But two years of work will pay off for Hugh Michaels and a group of Langston residents on Saturday when the town unveils a monument to honor its World War II veterans at 11 a.m.
The monument, 12 feet long by 8 feet high, will be dedicated in a special ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m. A reception with refreshments will follow the dedication.
Bearing the name Langston Memorial, the names of the men from the town who served during World War II are inscribed on its granite face. The motto “Lest We Forget” is centered on the face with an American Flag above it.
U.S. Congressman Parker Griffith and Northeast Alabama Community College President Dr. David Campbell will be the guest speakers at the event. The Scottsboro High School band will provide patriotic music. U.S. Air Force Chaplain/Colonel (Ret.) Don Reeves will also take part in the program.
The monument is located adjacent to Langston United Methodist Church.
Hugh Michaels, a former Langston resident who now resides in Huntsville, developed the idea for the memorial.
“We wanted to honor the men from Langston who served in WWII,” Michaels said. “For a town that size there was a lot.”
Michaels got help raising funds to finance the project. He had help researching the records of those who took part in the war and arranging a location for the monument. Langston residents Phyliss Baker and Larry Chism were instrumental in making Michaels’ dream a reality.
Members of the Scottsboro VFW and American Legion chapters will also take part in the services. Jackson County veterans from all branches of services will also be recognized during the event.
“Raymond Brandon of the local American Legion has been helpful throughout this journey. We invite the public to come and help make this a very special day for those we owe so much,” Michaels said.
Landscaping of the area is being completed by Debra Reece, a master gardener, with help from Karen Tidmore and Gretchen McGee.
To get to Langston turn off of Alabama Highway 35 adjacent to the B.B. Comer Bridge. Follow Jackson County Road 67 to Langston. The church and monument will be on the right.
Share |
Save |
Mail |
Print |
Comment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|