July 27, 2017 - VFW Post 8904 and Auxiliary members recognized the 64th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice before the Shelby County Veterans Memorial on Thursday, July 27, 2017.
The event was led by Larry Hume, Post Quartermaster, and the opening prayer was given by Cynthia Islas, Post Chaplain.
Hume thanked everyone for being present to help remember the 64th anniversary of the signing of the peace armistice, which ended the Korean War which lasted from June 25 1950 to July 27, 1953.
"Sixty-four years ago today the Korean War ended. Hundreds of thousands of Americans served their country in that war, and many gave their lives," said Hume. "Some call the Korean War, the forgotten war, but those that served during that time will never be forgotten by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and our Auxiliary. They served honorably and with distinction."
Hume stated some call it a conflict; however, it was a war with 33,686 battle deaths, 2,830 non-battle deaths, 103,000 wounded, and still missing in action from the Korean War are 7,740.
"The number of missing in action is 67 less than a year ago when we held our program here at this very place. Thanks to the Defense POW/MIA accounting agency, 67 more families now have closure for their loved one," said Hume.
Six citizens of Shelby County were among those killed in action, according to Hume, and one remains missing in action. A roll call of honor was read by Sandy Risinger, Auxiliary President; Mary Fausett, Senior Vice; and Beverly Langford, Auxiliary member. Those names read are as follows:
Clifford Hughes, killed in action August 13, 1950
Johnny V. Mena, killed in action April 19, 1951
Bobbie F. Mock, killed in action November 22, 1950
Billy Clyde Stephenson, killed in action November 5, 1952
Leonard Williams, killed in action May 18, 1951
Willie J. Wilson, killed in action May 27, 1951
Willie E. Windham, missing in action since August 12, 1950
Prisoner of war:
Hubert L. Langford, North Korean POW
Pearl D. Lucas, North Korean POW
Billy Lee Westcoat, Chinese POW
Following the roll call of honor, Hume remarked Clifford Hughes also served in World War II and was a Silver Star recipient. He then asked the audience for names of any other Korean War veterans who they would like remembered and those mentioned included: Albert Henry Lafitte; Travis Risinger; Frank E. Maidic; and Lt. Col. Hubert A. Mott.
John Piersol, Post Service Officer, then hung the memorial wreath from the Shelby County Veterans Memorial and Taps was presented by Mike Langford, Past Post Commander.
