Virtual Wall of Honor by Carrot-Top Industries

Edward Joseph Abbott
US Army

I am the proud daughter of a WWII veteran of the United States Army. The bitter part is that my father passed away 2 ½ years ago after losing his battle with primary liver cancer. I’d like to share his story because my father is one of those classic examples as to why we call them the “Greatest Generation.” Some years back, I read Tom Brokaw’s book titled this and my father’s story would have fit in well with the others honored in the memoir.

Edward Joseph Abbott (1918-2007) was the second born into a family of 10 children. After the years of stories that were told, I’ve come to the conclusion that he was one of the leaders of the neighborhood mayhem that occurred on a regular basis as he grew up in Saginaw, MI. He was the oldest of the boys which were all blessed to be athletic. This gave them the ability to outrun their victims on a regular basis, whether it was a neighbor they had stolen apples from or other kids who had fallen victim to a prank. Their athleticism led to 3 of them playing baseball on a team together in Freeland, MI in the Tri-Valley League. My dad was the pitcher and was good enough to begin playing AAA ball in Findlay, OH in the late 1930’s. Headlines in the Republican Courier during the 1939-1941 seasons included “Abbott Chalks No. 5” or “Abbott’s Hurling.”

After gaining experience at this level of play my dad had become a phenomenal pitcher and was about to be moved to the majors. He would have been playing for the Detroit Tigers if God hadn’t had another plan for him. In May of 1941 my dad was drafted into the United States Army to serve his country during WWII. Just as most people remember where they were during important historical events, my dad would always tell the story of being on KP duty when Pearl Harbor was bombed. This event led to his being overseas for 3 full years of his 4+ years of service. When he was honorably discharged in August of 1945 he returned home to his family who had grown by 3 more siblings who he’d never met. Those siblings, who he once knew well, did not remember him. It was rare to see my dad emotional when telling any war stories but when recalling the moments of returning home, one thing always choked him up; the memory of his mother standing at the kitchen sink peeling potatoes for potato pancakes and her screams of elation when he threw that knapsack onto the middle of the kitchen floor to get her attention. He had returned home safely and could now get back to his life, so you would think. Now 28 years old and over 4 years away from the game my father’s pitching career in major league baseball was no more. And that was that. I think the older I get the more it bothers me to think about the “what ifs” and the sacrifice that he had been forced to make. But that is the amazing thing about my dad. He was so proud to have served his country along side of the other greats of his generation. He never once complained about his lost opportunity to be another famous player of his time.

We buried my father in December of 2007 with full military honors. Sitting in a safe in our home is one flag and 21 shells passed down to me from my mother.

Submitted By: Shannon Abbott-Henige

SGT Edward Lee J. Barron
U.S. Army

Served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Edward lives in Michigan with wife, Stef and family. He still continues to service our country

Submitted by: Aurora Barron

PVT Jesus F. Barron
U.S. Army

Served in Korea.

Submitted by: Aurora Barron

SGT Edward Lee J. Barron
U.S. Army

Served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Submitted by: Aurora Barron

A1C Charles Bartholomew
U.S. Air Force

Charles was stationed in Alaska from May 1963 until Nov 1964. He was in Vietnam from October 1965 until March 1966

Submitted by: Debbie Batholomew

MSGT Arthur B. Belmore
U.S. Air Force

Served 26 Conflicts; Raid on Kadafi, Desert Strom, Desert Shield, Afghanistan,  Iraq Horn of Africa, Cold War

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

SGT Arthur J. Belmore
U.S. Marine Corps

Served in WWI and WWII. KIA.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

PFC Clifford Belmore
U.S. Army

Served in WWII.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

TSGT George W. Belmore
U.S. Air Force

George served during the Cold War, Korean War and Viet Nam where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his services during the Tet offensive.

CPO Norman Arthur Belmore
U.S. Navy

Served WWII, Korean War and Cold War.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

LTCMDR Richard K. Belmore
U.S. Navy

Served in the Cold War.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

A1C Roger P. Belmore
U.S. Air Force

Served in the Cold War, Korean War, and Vietnam War.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

A2C Ronald Arthur Belmore
U.S. Air Force

Served in the Cold War.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

SSG Connett Brewer
82nd Airborne
Served 2 Tours in Iraq

Connett is the best!! He's always been a great friend and no matter where he goes in life I'll always support him.

Submitted by: Nicki Snyder

HM3 Edward A.T. Bonfiglio
U.S. Navy

One of two brothers serving together overseas. Son of Edward J. Bonfiglio and Grandson to EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Sr., brother to SSG Gregory W.P. Bonfiglio and newphew to EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Jr. Also the great-nephew to CAPT. Arthur Price.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

SGT Edward J. Bonfiglio
U.S. Air Force

Served during the Gulf War. Son of EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Sr. and Grandson to EMS Arthur Price. Also the newphew of CAPT Arthur Price and brother to EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Jr.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

SSG Gregory W.P. Bonfiglio
U.S. Air Force

One of two brothers serving together overseas. Son of Edward J. Bonfiglio and Grandson to EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Sr., brother is HM3 Edward A.T. Bonfiglio and newphew to EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Jr. Also the great-nephew to CAPT. Arthur Price.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Sr.
U.S. Navy

Served during the Korean Conflict

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Jr.
U.S. Navy

Served from 1975 to 1989. Son of EM2 Paul Bonfiglio Sr. and the Grandson of ENS Arthur Price. Also the nephew to CAPT Arthur Price and brother to SGT Edward J. Bonfiglio.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

Ken Booker
U.S. Air Force

Served in Vietnam K-9

Submitted by: His wife, Pam Booker

Robert L. Booker
U.S. Army

Served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam

Submitted by: His daughter-in-law, Pam Booker

CPL Aaron Walter Budd
Hometown Durham, NC / Station in SC

Photo is of Aaron with his new bride Stacie. He has had 1 tour in Iraq and has been a great help in the fight for freedom.

Submitted by: Bobbi Rigsbee

WO Michael G. Brennan
U.S. Marine Corps

Michael served two tours in Iraq.

Submitted by: R. Brennan USN, 61-66

SGT Robert B. Burger
U.S. Army

Robert B. Burger Sr. was a Sgt. in the U.S. Army, serving in Europe during WWII. Dad’s company took over a town in Germany. Having no flag to display, Sgt. Bobby Burger found a tattered one in a garbage can, used adhesive tape to bind the ‘stars’ end, and boot straps to secure it to the flagpole rope. The ‘stars’ end of the flag was so tattered that only 42 stars are actually displayed – I still have the flag framed and proudly display it in my office. I enjoy telling the story of how this flag came to ‘fly’ over this small German town. Although he would not talk about the war, he was very proud of his service. My Dad’s only brother was a POW in Japan. Dad died in 1994.

Submitted by: his son, Robert B. Burger Jr.

PFC Damian S. Bushart
U.S. Army

Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. KIA 10/22/2003.

Submitted by: Skip Bushart

CWO3 John C. Bushart
U.S. Army

Served in WWII and Korea

Submitted by: Skip Bushart

CMSGT John "Skip" Bushart
U.S. Air Force

Served in Vietnam and Desert Storm

SSG William "Bill" Bushart
U.S. Air Force

Served in WWII and Korea

Submitted by: Skip Bushart

Paul T. Carter
U.S. Army

1922-2005. I would like to recognize my Hero who is my Grandfather. He served as a Lt. in the US Army's 10th Mountain Division in WWII and also the Korean war workin in the CIC aka CIA. He was a great infulence to me and my cousins and of course the rest of our family. He passed away after he lost his battle with cancer in 2005 He is surely missed everyday. And he inspires me to do my best. He wanted to be a naval pilot but was unable to with his color blindness in one eye. In highschool that was my dream before realizing thats what he wanted, I hope one day I can be as successful as he was.

I love you Grandpa, Ill see you again one day

Submitted by: Elizabeth Primeaux

MSGT Douglas M. Casamer
U.S. Air Force, USANG & USAFR

Veteran Vietnam Era, Persian Gulf, and Macomb County VA Director with twenty-five years of service to veterans, all while he continued to serve his country

Paul Chalet
U.S. Army
Scout pilot in A Troop in 69-70

Paul Chalet was a well-respected Scout pilot for the Silver Spurs. He perished in a civilian helicopter accident on 15 Jan 94.

Paul will be missed by all of us who knew him, but knowing he was still flying after all those years brings some comfort.

Submitted by: Lisa Mitten

ENFN Christopher P. Collier
U.S. Navy

Christopher is one of two brothers serving our country. He is the brother to LCPL Matthew N. Collier.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

LCPL Matthew N. Collier
U.S.Marine Corps

Matthew is one of two brothers serving our country. He is the brother to ENFN Christopher P. Collier.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

MJR Bruce J. Cortalano
U.S. Air Force

Served during Viet Nam and the Gulf War. Son of Frank Cortalano and Grandson to Guiseppe Sullo. Also the nephew to Joseph Sullo.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

Frank Cortelano
U.S. Army

Served during WWII.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

Gaetano “Tom” P. DeGrazia
U.S. Navy

Gaetano is a former Navy First Class Petty Officer who served in World War II. 86 yrs old born 9/15/1923

Submitted by: His daughter, Loretta DeGrazia

PFC Eric S. Ditmars
U.S. Marine Corps

He is just starting his career with the Marine Corps. It has always been a dream of his to serve his country. It has been a long processes for him to get this far and I am very proud of what he has accomplished to get to this point, and proud of all the things that he still lie ahead for him during his service. Semper Fi! Oooh-Rah!

Submitted by: His mom, Denise Heller

SSGT Carl Dorris
U.S. Marine Corps

 

Submitted by: Robert Earle

Pvt. Robert Harry Eppinger
U.S. Army

Hometown: Flint, Michigan (Genesee County)
Status: KIA (Belgium Campaign, World War II)
Date of Birth: March 24, 1926
Date of Death: January 30, 1945

Buried At: Section 3, Site 879A
Camp Butler National Cemetery
Springfield, Illinois

Honored By: Mother, Father, Brothers, Sisters, Sister N Laws, Brother N Laws, Nephews, Nieces, Cousins

Family Members:
Loretta A. Eppinger, Mother
Harry O. Eppinger, Father
Betty Eppinger (Porritt), Sister
June Eppinger (Wilson), Sister
Alice Eppinger (Venters), Sister
Donald Eppinger, Brother
Barbara J. Eppinger, Sister
James W. Eppinger, Brother
Larry Eppinger, Brother

Submitted by: Nephew Timothy J. Eppinger, U.S. Army Veteran (1988-1992) Sergeant At Arms, Fife Lake American Legion 2nd Vice Commander, Fife Lake Sons of the American Legion Fife Lake American Legion-Post 219

SFC Reginald E. Falls
Connected to the 728 th Main Support Battalion out of Lock Haven, Pa.

Photo is Reginald who is a Recruiter with the Pa National Guard, with his better half, Theresa (who also served in the PA ANG), finally relaxing a moment on the Coast of Maine before heading out again to a hectic schedule serving his Country.

Submitted by: Teresa Sheets

Gerard M. Fitzpatrick
U.S. Army

Vietnam Veteran. Blinded Veterans Association Life Member

1LT Kenneth E. Gardner
Army Air Corps

Kenneth Edson Gardner, my brother, having been attending Purdue and Kansas Univ. ROTC, joined the Army Field Artillery then later transferred to the Army Air Corps (as it was known then)

Submitted by: His sister, Jane G. Jones

LT CMDR Timothy Gault
U.S. Navy

U.S. Navy Chaplain

Submitted by: Diane Gault

C.J. Gardner
American Expeditionary Force

C.J. Gardner, my father, was in the Indiana National Guard and was sent to Texas when Gen. John Pershing was chasing Pancho Villa and then went to France with the American Expeditionary Force.

Submitted by: His Daughter, Jane Jones

Larry L.V. George
U.S. Marine Corps

Served as a Marine in Vietnam.

Submitted by: His Sister, Lou

R.E. Gorman
U.S. Marine Corps

Served and was severely injured in WWII.

Submitted by: "Drew Boy", Grandson

SSG Bernard J. Gough
U.S. Air Force

Bernard Joseph Gough served 2 tours in the United States Air Force in the capacity of a Staff Sergeant. His first tour started in September 1942 in Ft. Meyer Virginia, then moved to Hawaii in December 1944 until he received an Honorable Discharge in January 1946. His second tour started in September 1950 at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia and then moved to Mitchel Air Force Base in New York as a Senior Command Specialist for the 34th Command Squadron. Bernard was the recipient of a Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Ribbon, Asiatic Pacific Ribbon and a World War II Victory Ribbon. Bernard loved his country and his family and departed this world on February 13, 1998. He is survived by his wife Ann, children Peggy, Pat, Kathy, Teresa and Michael, all who miss him dearly. God Bless America!

Submitted by: His Son, Michael Gough

Pvt. Mark W. Graham
U.S. Army
Lafayette, Louisiana
1984 - 2007

Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Operation Iraqi Freedom. More information on Mark and the non-profit foundation established in his honor can be found at www.MG20-20.com

Submitted by: Claire Lowry

Colonel David B. Hall
U.S. Marine Corps

Colonel Hall is my brother, and we proudly recognize him as the highest ranking officer in a family of men that served in the US Armed Forces. He has served as a Commissioned Officer in the US Marine Corps since 1981. He has served in 2 conflicts, Somalia and the Gulf. He is currently serving as part of a Command Structure in Iraq.

Submitted by: His Brother, Robert C. Hall

YN3 Luther Earl Hart
US NAVY

Served in WWII. Beloved Father who passed away this past August, 2009. His final resting place is Quantico National Cemetary

Submitted by: His Daughter, Marjorie Carter

Willard D. Hayes
U.S. Air Force

Willard was a 'belly bomber' in World War II, serving in Okinowa and the Pacific.

Submitted by his daughter, Dorothy E. Johnson

Randy Michael Heck
U.S. Marine Corps

Randy left behind a wife, Kara and 1 month daughter, Cali he never got to meet or see. His loving family will always remember and miss him dearly.
May 28, 1989 - March 28, 2010 / Djibouti, South Africa
2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battlion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expenditionary Force Camp Lejeune, North Carolina 2nd Marine Division, II Mariine Expenditionary Force

Submitted by: Melody Bouslaugh

SPEC 4 Frank A. Jania
U.S. Army

Stationed at HQ 7th Corp, Moeringen Germany, Kelly Brks

Submitted by: Dale Shepherd

CSM Theron L. Johnson (Ret)
U.S. Army

Theron joined Army 1950, retired 1970. Served in Armor units, in 1989 was appointed as the Honorary Regimental Sergeant Major of the 32d. Armored Regiment. Retired in Killeen, Texas, home of Fort Hood.

David M. Jones, M.D.
U.S. Army
Served in WWI

He was in the Philippines where he took care of the Philippino Scouts and their families and in Korea where he served in the local Army hospital.

Submitted by: Jane Jones

Ralph E. Jones
American Expeditionary Force

Ralph E. Jones, an attorney, was sent to France with the American Expeditionary Force. He later was transferred to the Judge Advocacy Corps and was either prosecution attorney or defense attorney for the troops waiting in large camps for ships to bring them home.

Submitted by: His Daughter-in-law, Jane Jones

PO1C Raymond Laby
U.S. Navy

Served in WWI.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

SSG. Adam P. Kapchus
U.S. Army

10th Mountain

< Submitted by: Paul P. Kapchus

SSG. Alphonse P. Kapchus
U.S. Army Air Corp

World War 2 Submitted by: Paul P. Kapchus

2LT. Erik P. Kapchus
U.S. Air Force
Submitted by: Paul P. Kapchus

MSGT Charles W. KitchensUS Air Force

Served our Country from October 1954 - August 1975. Vietnam Era Vet.

Submitted by: His Wife, Lucille

Peter T. Lamacchia
U.S. Army

5/4/42-12/16/92. Peter Served in Vietnam.

Submitted by: His wife, Cindy Lamacchia

James L. Lynch
U.S. Army

James Lee Lynch, Sr., was drafted into the U.S. Army during WWII. He left in January 1943, leaving behind his 8-month pregnant wife, to fight a battle he knew little about. The 125th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron landed on Day 9 of the D-Day Invasion, and James continued to fight through France, Germany, & Belgium. He was one of the lucky ones, returning home in September 1945 to his wife and 2 year old daughter. That was my father and he was a hero.

Submitted by: His Daughter, Sylvia Mathews

Paul E. Lynch
U.S. Army

Paul Edward Lynch entered the U.S. Army during WWII on 17 Mar 1944. After basic training he was sent to England and on to France, meeting an early death just 15 days after arrival in a battle at Metz, France. On July 28, 1948, three years after the war ended, Paul was enroute home, accompanied by military escort. On August 27th at 8:40 a.m. a Southern Railway train No. 36 arrived at the Danville Railway Station at 12:20 in the afternoon. The clacking of the cassion rolling along the depot walkway, accompanied by a young soldier escort, made a lasting impression on those waiting to receive the remains. Paul was laid to rest on Sunday, August 29th, 1948 in his hometown in Danville, Virginia. Paul E. Lynch was a hero.

Submitted by: Sylvia Mathews

SSGT Chris Malafronte
U.S. Army

Served in WWII.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

LCPL Matthew S. Medicott
US Marine Corps

Born April 14, 1986, died in combat while serving in his second tour of duty in Iraq, Aug. 25, 2007. Matt was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Div., 1st Expeditionary Force out of Camp Pendleton, California.

Submitted by: Chris Dreyer

1LT Frank Lee Messinger Jr

Killed in Action: March 15, 1945 on Mindanao, The Philippines

Submitted by: His grandson, Alan Fair

SGT Robert A. Miller
U.S. Air Force

Robert enlisted in the Air Force when he was 17 and went in for 3 years when he turned 18. (1943-1946) He was stationed at many locations including Biluxi, MS....HatBox, OK....Denver, CO....Indianapolis, IN.....just to name a few.

Submitted by: His Daughter, Sandy Snyder & His Granddaughter, Nicki Snyder

PVC Joseph A. Miracle
U.S. Army

2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne – KIA 07/05/07

Submitted by: his sister, Christine Sharber

LT COL Donald Moilan
U.S. Army

Bravely served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam.

Submitted by: Bruce Moilan, Jr., Grandson

Bruce J. Morgan
U.S. Marine Corps

Served in Vietnam.

Submitted by: His best friend, Pam Booker

T/SGT William "Bill" O'Neal
U.S. Air Force Retired

Served in Korea and is also a Vietnam Veteran.

Submitted by: Mike O'Neal

PFC Andrew H. Nelson
U.S. Army

Andrew was killed in action in Baghdad Iraq on December 25, 2006 when he was hit by an IED. Read Andrew's story at: www.andrewnelsonmemorial.com

Submitted by: His father, Alan Nelson

Daniel Ochoa Sr.
Sp5 Army

Vietnam 68-70. Nov.30, 1947 - Feb. 28,2007

Submitted by: Daniel Ochoa Jr.

Henry D. Osborne Sr.
US Marine Corps

Served in WWII.

Submitted by: His Daughter, Pam Booker

SGT Damian Pedersen
Damian has done 4 tours for Iraq Freedom.
Submitted by: His Wife, Selena Pedersen

Samuel Cory Perkins
USMC

He is a loving father and husband at the age of 21. He is stationed in North Carolina, Cherry Point Marine Airbase. We love him, and are so very proud of him.

Love Mom, Dad, Katie, Ted and Kyle

CPL Richard R. Pilon

Served July 1945-December 1949, a veteran of the Berlin Airlift

Submitted by: R. Pilon

Darrell "Shifty" Powers
Shifty volunteered for the airborne in WWII and served with Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, part of the 101st Airborne Infantry. If you've seen Band of Brothers on HBO or the History Channel, you know Shifty. His character appears in all 10 episodes, and Shifty himself is interviewed in several of them. He jumped into Normandy and Arnem. He recently returned from Normandy for a final visit with those few that are left.

Shifty died on June 17 after fighting cancer. There was no parade. No big event in Staples Center. No wall to wall back to back 24x7 news coverage. No weeping fans on television.

Rest in peace, Shifty.
Submitted by: Will Grasse

SPC Stephan Porr
U.S. Army

 

Submitted by: Richard Proctor

CAPT Arthur W. Price
U.S. Army

Served in WWII. Son of ENS Arthur W. Price.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

ENS Arthur W. Price
U.S. Navy

Served in WWI.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

Spc5 Dewey Proctor
U.S. Army

 

Submitted by: Richard Proctor

PFC Richard Proctor
U.S. Army

 

Submitted by: Richard Proctor

CW2 Robert Prokopowic
1st Special Forces Group (Airborne)

Bob is a Special Forces soldier who is stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington State and is currently deployed in Afghanistan. He has been awarded two Bronze Stars (one while in service in Afghanistan and the other in Iraq). He has been recently nominated for a Medal of Valor. He has a wife Erica and a son Noah who live in Yelm Washington.

Submitted by: Barry Kendell

Mills Robert Pulley Jr.
U.S. Army

 

Submitted by: Richard Proctor

Mills Robert Pulley Sr.
U.S. Army

 

Submitted by: Richard Proctor

SCSM John A. Rauschkolb
U.S. Navy

Pearl Harbor Survivor - At the time of the attack he was a third class (E4) signalman on the battleship USS West Virginia (BB-48) and was on the bridge of that ship at the time of and during most of the attack. As a result of the action of that day he was reported missing in action but survived and went on to serve in the US Navy for the duration of the war.

As of this writing his family is joining him to travel to Fredericksburg, TX to attend the annual meeting of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. John Rauschkolb is a strong and healthy survivor soon to turn 88 and is a proud member of that Greatest Generation.

Submitted by: His son, John Andrew Rauschkolb II

SGT Glendon H. Rawlins
MCT BN / SOI East, Camp Geiger, North Carolina

SGT Rawlins is a Combat Instructor with MCT Battalion at the School of Infantry East, stationed at Camp Geiger, NC.

Submitted by: Angela Rawlins

Mark Reule
U.S. Army

He turns 20 this week - he is a Bremen High School Graduate - Fire Fighter for Posen Fire Department and became a big brother to my daughter when her father died.

Submitted by: Liz Schreiber

L/Cpl William C. Richardson
US Marine Corps 1959 - 1965

MarDet USS Providence. NAS Corpus Christi, TX.

LCPL Colby G. Robinson
U.S. Marine Corps
Colby is currently serving in the United States Marine Corps, based in Camp Pendleton California. He enlisted 1 year ago. Submitted by: His mom, Brenda Robinson.

1LT Tyler B. Robinson
U.S. Marine Corps
Tyler is currently serving in the United States Marine Corps, based in Whiting Field, Milton Florida. He received his commission 3 years ago. Submitted by: His mom, Brenda Robinson.

SPC Ryan L. Rodriguez

Currently serving in Iraq with the Texas Army National Guard 72nd IBCT, Houston, Texas. Whoah!

Submitted by: His mom, Brenda Rodriguez

1LT. Lucas Sandidge
U.S. Army
1/25 Stryker Brigade Combat Team
Fort Wainwright, Alaska
Lucas is currently serving in Iraq. He is the son of Ron and Kathy Sandidge from Victoria, Texas Submitted by: Ron Sandidge, his father.

SPC Brian P. Shaver
U.S. Army
12/17/1977 - 7/31/2006

Erik Shepard
Contractor for the U.S. Army
Served in the U.S. Marines also.

Erik served in Okinawa, Japan as well as in Korea.

Submitted by: Becky Mueck

SPEC 5 Dale E. Shepherd
U.S. Army

Stationed at 465th Medical Det (DS) Stuttgart Germany, Kelly Brks.

Submitted by: Dale Shepherd

Seaman First Class Dale R. Shepherd
U.S. Navy

USS North Carolina BB55, WWII

Submitted by: Dale Shepherd

PFC Arnold J. Seiber
U.S. Army

WWII Veteran. Combat Infantry, Rhineland and Japan, Received American Theater Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with Bronze Star, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon, Good Condust Medal and WWII Victory Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Carbine Expert

Submitted by: His daughter, Donna Caraballo

Photo shown is of the USNS Sisler, one of several Strategic Sealift ships named for Medal of Honor recipients. Launched in San Diego, CA, February 28, 1998.
1LT George Kenton “Ken” Sisler
Dexter, Missouri

From Lt. Sisler's Medal of Honor citation:
On February 7, 1967, First Lieutenant George "Ken" Sisler was a platoon leader / advisor in Vietnam when his platoon was attacked. He quickly rallied his men, deployed them to a better defensive position, and called for air strikes. Learning that two men had been wounded and were unable to retreat, Lt. Sisler charged from his position through intense enemy fire to assist them. He began carrying one of the wounded men when he came under intensive fire by the enemy. Laying down his wounded comrade, he killed three onrushing enemy soldiers with his rifle and silenced the enemy machine gun with a grenade. When he returned to the perimeter with the wounded soldier, the left flank of the platoon came under heavy attack by a superior enemy force. A single-handed charge by Lt. Sisler, using rifle fire and grenades, halted the attack and forced the enemy to withdraw. He continued to move about the field directing air strikes on enemy positions until he was mortally wounded.

Submitted by: His Nephew, Patrick Barbour

SGT Martin H Spani
U.S. Marine Corps

Served 1960-1966

Guiseppe Sullo
U.S. Army

Served during WWII.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

MCPO Richard B. Spaulding
US Navy

Served in the Cold War on Terror.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

PVT Joseph Sullo
U.S. Army

Served in WWII. Son of Guiseppe Sullo.

Submitted by: Paul Bonfiglio

MSGT Donald Spaulding
U.S. Air Force

Served in WWII, Cold War, Korean War and Vietnam War.

Submitted by: George W. Belmore

Ronald Turcotte
U.S. Army

Ronald entered the Army in 1967, serving in many locations to include Germany, several tours in Asia and numerous stateside assignments.

Submitted by: His Wife, Kun Cha

CPL Owen O. Utley
U.S. Marine Corps
5th Mar. Div, Pioneer Battalion, B Company

Served during WWI. KIA at Iwo Jima

Submitted by: His Grandson, Doug Mathis

Soncha Verheyen
U.S. Army Wife

For the 20 years that I served with the US Army, she served proudly and supported me each and every minute or our lives. She picked up and moved when duty called me to do the same. She endured the good times and the better times, gave of her time whenever it was needed. She raised a Great family, many times without my help. We continue to support our troops, country and family together 36 years later.

Submitted By: Her Husband, Harold Verheyen

SPC Daniel J. Wilson
U.S. Army
Vietnam Veteran - 1967-1968.

Daniel joined the Army in 1966 and left in 1969 at the rank of Permanent Specialist E-5. He spent 12 months in South Vietnam with the USARV Headquarters and the rest of his time was with three different Transportation Companies and the last one was with the newly organized Transportation Command of Europe. While in service, he earned honors during Basic Training and the Army Commendation Medal in Vietnam and two letters of Achievement while at the Transportation Command. Also, while in Vietnam, he was given a Top Secret Limited Security Clearance to work on highly classified missions during the war.

Lacey A. Whitley
U.S. Air Force

Served in WWII.

Submitted by: Pam Booker

Jackie J. Ward
U.S. Air Force

Served in Vietnam.

Submitted by: Pam Booker

SSG Justin Whiting
U.S. Army

Justin was a US Army Green Beret "Special Forces" Medic. He served three tours in Iraq. He got out of the Army for about six months but went back in because he missed it and felt he was needed there. Justin grew up on my farm in Hancock, New York. It was a dairy farm for many years. I now raise beef cattle - my barn burned in 1991. Justin was a true outdoorsman. He loved to hunt, fish and trap as well as work on the farm. The flag was raised on Memorial Day of 2009. It sits along the rolling hills of NYS Route 97 overlooking the farm. We constantly get comments of what a beautiful and inspiring sight it is. After Justin's death there was little that could ease my sorrow. Since I raised this flag the sight of it always makes me feel better. Read more about Justin Whiting on our blog here.

Submitted by: His father, Randy Whiting

SMSGT Jeryl L. Wood
U.S. Air Force Ret, 1965 - 1988

Jeryl was an Air Traffic Controller who served in VietNam twice, and took part in the VN evacuations while in the Phillipines. He also participated in the military relief effort to support the nation's air traffic control system during and after the Controller's Strike in the early '80s. After retirement, he went on to serve with the Dept of Energy in Nevada until 2002, as part of the Nuclear Testing Organization and as Project Manager for other training and research and development missions.

Submitted by: His daughter, Lindsay McDaniel Wood

Eric Benjamin
Medicolegal Investigator for Dutchess County, NY

It takes a special person to investigate death and destruction. Eric is a very special and talented man. He also served in the Marine Corps back in the 70’s and 80’s.

Captain Tim Cochran
Thomaston Fire Dept

LODD - March 16, 2010

Submitted By: Jeff Sanders

Orange Rural Fire Department
Hillsborough, NC

Honoring Jeff Cabe and the dedicated volunteers of the Orange Rural Fire Department.

Submitted by: Eric Garrison

Pinehurst Police Department
Pinehurst, North Carolina

This is to honor the Police Officers at the Pinehurst Police Department.

Submitted by: Jerry McDonald

CAPT Timothy Price
Durham Fire Department
Durham, NC

Timothy is a training officer for the Durham Fire Dept. He has been serving for 21 years and is a father of 2.

Submitted by: Stacie Budd

Mark Reule
U.S. Army

He turns 20 this week - he is a Bremen High School Graduate - Fire Fighter for Posen Fire Department and became a big brother to my daughter when her father died.

Submitted by: Liz Schreiber

Martin Spani
Firefighter

Served Lynwood Fire Department. 1977 - 2006

Todd R. Stanaway

Todd R. Stanaway was a firefighter/paramedic for the city of Westland, Michigan. He had served 13 years, including 9 years on the regional hazardous materials team. He served as part of the honor guard during the memorial parade in New York City in remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

He was 36 when he died of duty-related brain cancer. He left behind a wife and four-year- old daughter as well as siblings, parents, step-parents, in-laws and other family members and a multitude of friends and colleagues. He was dearly loved and is greatly missed.

He passed away just two months after receiving his promotion to sergeant. He is shown at the promotion ceremony with his father.

His name is on the Wall of Honor at the Colorado Springs Firefighters Memorial. He was a devoted husband and father, loving son and brother and a friend to all.

Submitted by: Loretta Stanaway

Capt. Chad E. Wessels
Firefighter/EMT

Chad E. Wessels, 31, was not only a loving Husband, Father, and Son, but a devoted Firefighter and Friend. Chad gave the ultimate sacrifice, on December 11, 2005, Chad died in the line of duty while responding to a structure fire.

Chad started his career in Emergency Services over 15 years ago as an explorer with the Palm Beach County Fire in Florida. He later joined the Army so he could give back even more to his Country, it’s the military that moved Chad to central Texas. Chad may have been transplanted to Texas, but he called it home and wouldn’t ever leave. Chad devoted his life not only to his family, especially his pride and joy, his 7 month old daughter, Kaylee, but to Firefighting and overall helping others. At the time of his death, Chad was a full-time Firefighter for Fort Hood Fire Dept., a part-time Firefighter for the City of Marble Falls, and a Captain with the Briggs Volunteer Fire Dept.

Chad did not need a title, nor recognition for anything that he did, he considered a handshake (he preferred hugs) and a thank you the best recognition ever. However he had been recognized several times, he was awarded EMT of the Year in 1998, Civilian Firefighter of the Quarter in August of 2004, Emergency Service Person of the year for 2004, and Firefighter of the Quarter Posthumously in January 2006.

When Chad joined the Briggs FD he wasn’t living in their jurisdiction yet so he would drive up to approx 25 miles one way to help with ANY situation they had. He joined the department to help improve it, he had so many goals, many not accomplished yet. He then later moved to the small town with an eagerness never seen in that community. Everyone was so excited to see someone so young wanting to help and getting involved with the community. He lived to help anyone in need, from stopping and helping someone change a flat tire, to building a haunted house and giving hay rides to the children of the community for Halloween. Even though Chad loved his volunteer department, part of his dreams were reached when he was selected to work for Fort Hood, Chad considered it an honor to be a firefighter on the military base.

Chad never met a stranger, and he called everyone he met a friend. Chad always had a smile for you and it could light up a room. Chad gave his life trying to help a neighbor whose house was on fire. The loss of this wonderful man has not only devastated his family but has been deeply felt by thousands of lives he had touched. He has been and will be truly missed.

Chad was not only my husband, and friend, but also my HERO.

Submitted by: Melinda Wessels

Want to submit a friend or family member to the Virtual Wall of Honor?" E-mail us at wall@carrot-top.com with your submission photo, name of person being honored and information you would like on your posting or for more information about our Virtual Wall of Honor. Please allow 3-5 days for submission to be active.