VETERANS
As a proud Veteran Owned Funeral Home, we specialize in expertly guiding families through every aspect of veteran funeral benefits with compassion and precision. Our professional team is well-versed in securing the full range of honors and services entitled to our nation’s heroes, ensuring their legacies are celebrated in accordance with their service and sacrifice.
We assist families in accessing benefits such as burial of casketed or cremated remains in a VA national cemetery, a government-furnished headstone or marker, a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate, and dignified military funeral honors. Eligibility for these benefits is determined by the veteran’s service record and the circumstances of their passing.
a headstone, marker, or niche cover for the veteran’s grave, whether at a private, state, or national cemetery, ensuring lasting recognition of their service.
Burial Flag: A ceremonial flag is presented at no cost to drape the casket or urn of an honorably discharged veteran, symbolizing their dedication to our country.
Presidential Memorial Certificate: Families receive an engraved certificate signed by the President, honoring the memory and service of their loved one.
Burial in a VA National Cemetery
Gravesite: Eligible veterans and their loved ones receive burial at no cost in a national cemetery, including the opening and closing of the grave, a personalized headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate.
Government Headstone or Marker Headstone or Marker: The VA provides
Military Funeral Honors: A respectful ceremony featuring the folding and presentation of the U.S. flag and the playing of Taps, conducted by a detail of uniformed service members, pays tribute to the veteran’s commitment and sacrifice.
In addition, we offer exclusive prearrangement and pre-payment programs designed for veterans and their spouses, allowing families to thoughtfully plan ahead and ensure peace of mind for the future.
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“What is Memorial Day to Me”
Written by Robert
Stokely
K.I.A.
Killed in Action
Alex Rodriguez A veteran’s call to action
P.O.W./M.I.A.
Prisoners of War and/or Missing in Action
Veterans Fishing Organization
Veteran mental health with Ken Bearden
Rodney Riggs
A legacy of service and humility
What is a Veteran Through the Eyes of a Child
Veterans Thank you for serving
John Herman Robinson From Newnan to the Argonne
THANK YOU VETERANS!
On the cover:
Rodney Riggs - United States Marine Corps
Photo by Emily Hernandez
Thank you for your service, your sacrifice and your bravery!
Credits
Stacie Williams Producer & Sales
Emily Hernandez Graphic Designer & Paginator
Will Thomas Writer
Misha Benson Sales
Beth & Clay Neely Publishers
What is Memorial Day to Me
Many years ago, my daughter, Abbey was 3 or 4 years old and pretty organized in everything she did. I asked her to help me remember something I needed to do at 3 p.m. that day, telling her my memory didn’t always remember. Periodically she would ask if it was 3:00 yet.
When answering her query that day at 2:45 that it was almost 3:00 she said “You told me to REMEMORY” you. I couldn’t help but chuckle, but she had it right.
The word “memory” means the mind stores and is able to remember information. Our country has two specific days we honor groups of our military.
Veterans Day is each Nov. 11 and honors those who are serving or served and did not die in harm’s way. Memorial Day is an opportunity to remember the million plus who gave their very lives in the many battles and theatres of harm’s way to make and keep America free.
Memorial Day wasn’t always a personal day for me and I was just like a lot of people.
A day off with pay from work (or some nice overtime pay), three-day weekend, great food cooking out, a beach or lake trip or maybe starting a weeklong vacation, and of course the “official” start of summer fun and sun.
But that changed in an instant for me on Aug. 16, 2005, at 7 a.m. I met a major and chaplain in my driveway and before they could say anything, I asked “Is my boy dead?” Frozen seemingly in time, we just looked at each other.
I saw a distinctive hurt in their eyes and then Maj. Michael Hulsey said, “We regret to inform you. …” A chain of events rapidly unfolded. Time sped up but seemingly went very slow.
Memorial Day now brings back memories I wish I didn’t have. I shall never forget, and if I allow myself to think about the most mournful sound I have ever heard when I told my wife, Retta, that Mike was dead, my heart aches.
I wish I could not remember the heartbroken sobbing of Mike’s 13-year-old sister and the somber and stoic grief of a
17-year-old brother. Each time I ride along I-285, I avoid looking over at the Air Cargo facility where I went alone to meet Mike’s body, and I still tear up as I remember a very busy office and warehouse staff that suddenly froze as they realize two sergeants have uncrated Mike’s casket and are draping his flag over him.
“
” You can’t make it better, but you can make it matter by Remembering with Honor those who gave their lives and a lifetime of love for you and your family.
I wish I could have given Mike a better salute, but I did my best with tears streaming down my face. I remember hearing others in that cargo office and warehouse begin to sniffle and weep.
And I remember calling Retta and struggling through tears to softly say, “Our Boy is Home.”
I remember each time the military personnel reminded us in the days leading up to his funeral – more times than I wish – that Mike was a non-viewable body. I remember saying finally, “We get it, we know what happened and what that two inch piece of steel did when it hit him in the face.”
I still remember the feel of the heat from a scorching late August sun in Loganville, Georgia. I remember the report of a 21-gun volley, the mournful sound of Taps, and the quiet and somber folding of his flag, which almost broke me, and still does when I have been to the many military funerals since.
Wes, Retta, Abbey, Robert, Mike Stokely at Line Creek October 2004.
Photo by Sherry Litzenberger
I remember not wanting to say goodbye and let him go and asking them to pause just before they closed his vault. I remember grabbing a plain sheet of paper and quickly writing Mike a note, saying a prayer of Thanksgiving thanking God for him being my son and having the privilege to hear him call me Dad. I remember placing the note on his casket above his heart with some red roses, leaning in just above his cheek, and telling Mike I did not forget the promise I made to him before he deployed and that, “I will be back soon.”
I remember the steel casket lid seemed cool even for such a hot day as I kissed his casket and watched his vault close and lower into his grave.
I made sure I remembered to visit him at least monthly and tend his grave, regardless of what hour of day or weather it was. I remember the face of a Walton County Deputy that had eased his patrol car up on me as I knelt washing Mike’s grave marker as my car headlights shined on Mike’s grave at 3 a.m. I remember the Deputy said not a word, nodded approval and slowly drove away.
I remember John Davison at McKoon’s helping me with arrangements so that, on April 16, 2018, Mike’s body could be exhumed.
I remember helping with the digging and placing of the cable around his vault to lift it out of the ground and then following it to the Master Grave Services facility in Bogart, Georgia. I remember helping open Mike’s vault and seeing the tattered remains of my note from nearly 13 years before, still readable for the most part.
I remember leaning in close and whispering, “You are soon on your way.”
I remember “Bebomb” Smith, dad of a battle buddy of Mike’s, housing him at the Smith Funeral Home in Winder, Georgia, for a few days until that morning that Mike’s
brother, Wes, an uncle and his two sons and I loaded Mike’s casket into a van.
I remember the unexpected surprise of Jud Smith, Sheriff of Barrow County, sending two of his deputies to provide us an escort to the State line and the Winder Police and surrounding counties blocking roads at 6 a.m. to allow us to pass unimpeded. It was April 19 – Mike’s 36th birthday. I remember a push to get to Arlington, Virginia, on a tight 10-hour schedule so we could house Mike overnight at a Funeral Home there.
And I remember following the hearse into Arlington National Cemetery the next morning as many of Mike’s Battle Buddies from Iraq, friends and family awaited his arrival.
I remember the heartfelt tribute that Newnan Times-Herald writer, Alex McRae, wrote a few days after Mike was killed in Iraq. Alex wrote that we had become accustomed to reports of casualties as another American soldier was killed today, and then saying, “This time it is personal.”
When I have been asked over the years what could make it better, I reply, “You can’t make it better, but you can make it matter by Remembering with Honor those who gave their lives and a lifetime of love for you and your family.” I wish I had heard and heeded Alex McRae’s words sooner and that it didn’t have to become so personal to me to understand Memorial Day.
The Stokelys have been blessed greatly by God and his provision for us, including this community and so many friends. I call such blessings Romans 8:28 blessings. May the blessings of God be upon each one of you and may Memorial Day be a special time for you and your family.
Robert Stokely
Proud Dad SGT Mike Stokely USA 3rd ID E 108 CAV 48th BDE GAARNG
Mike’s nieces placing Wreath in his grave / Wreaths Across America Arlington 2024. They never got to scream his name in glee as he walked in the door at a family Christmas “Hey Uncle Mike is here” and then run and jump all over him. This is how it will be all their lives. Entire Family including Mike’s newest/fourth niece.
K . I . A . KILLED IN ACTION
Jeffrey Blanton
U.S. Marines
KIA 2004 Iraq
Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon
Saluted by Gold Star Luminary Committee
F/O Kenneth L. Bridges
U.S. Army
KIA 1945 WWII
Purple Heart, Co-pilot on a B-25 off the coast of China
Saluted by Steve & Susan Quesinberry
Specialist Adrian Mills
U.S. Army
KIA 2011 Iraq
Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon
Saluted by Gold Star Luminary Committee
LCpl Larry Gunnell Pinson
U.S. Marines - KIA 1969 Vietnam
Vietnam Ribbon, Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Marine Corps, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal
Saluted by Brenda & Carlton Clark, Linda & Toney Rhodes, Wylene & Claudell Phillips
Spec. 4 John Curtis ‘Curt’ Kroeger
U.S. Army
KIA 1970 Vietnam
Vietnam Ribbon, Combat Infantry Badge, 199th Infantry Brigade Patch, 12th Infantry Regiment
Saluted by Walter F. George High School
Cpl Patrick Ray Nixon
U.S. Marines
KIA An Nasiriyah Iraq 2003
Gold Star, National Defence Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Purple Heart
Saluted by Gold Star Luminary Committee
Chad D. Coleman
U.S. Army
KIA 2010 Afghanistan
Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism (Expeditionary), Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal for Former Yugoslavia
Saluted by Gold Star Luminary Committee
Cpl James E. Millirons
U.S. Marines
KIA 1967 Vietnam
Purple Heart, Vietnam Ribbon, III Marine Amphibious Force, 1st shore party BN
Saluted by Walter F. George High School
2nd Lt Charles R. Rubado
U.S. Army
KIA 2005 Tal Afar Iraq
Bronze Star, Purple Heart
Saluted by Gold Star Luminary Committee
Sgt. Johnny D. Swann
U.S. Army
KIA 1969 Vietnam
Purple Heart, Vietnam Ribbon, Distinguished Service Cross, Combat Infantry Badge, Silver Star
Saluted by Walter F. George High School
SGT Michael James ‘Mike’ Stokely
U.S. Army
KIA Iraq 2005
Bronze Star, Purple Heart, U.S. Calvary Assoc., IAVA, GWOT Fallen, 48th Infantry Brigade
Never forgotten
Lance Corp. Harold Lee Walton
U.S. Marines
KIA 1968 Vietnam
Purple Heart, Vietnam Ribbon, III Marine Expeditionary Force, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines
Saluted by Walter F. George High School
Lance Corporal Jeffrey D. Walker
U.S. Marines
KIA Camp Fallujah 2007
Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal
Saluted by everyone he loved
William M. Stancil
U.S. Army
KIA WWII
Saluted by family
K . I . A . KILLED IN ACTION
Private 1st Class Bruce
Lamar Watkins
U.S. Marines
KIA 1966 Vietnam
Purple Heart, Vietnam Ribbon, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, III Marine Expeditionary Force
Saluted by Walter F. George High School
Mike St. Clair
U.S. Army
KIA Vietnam
Saluted by Alford, Schmidt & Holmes Families
Captain Nicholas Schade
Whitlock
U.S. Air Force
KIA 2012
Never forgotten
Alex Rodriguez: A veteran’s call to action
WRITTEN BY WILL THOMAS
Alex Rodriguez knew his calling from a young age, but getting there was anything but easy. A retired engineer and former Air Force aircraft mechanic, Rodriguez pursued his dreams relentlessly, attributing his success to perseverance, dedication and hard work.
Rodriguez likens his story to the Disney movie “A Million Miles Away,” which details the real life story of NASA astronaut and flight engineer Jose Hernandez.
“I can relate to how this kid felt and what it took to get him to be able to achieve what he did,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez’s roots
Born and raised in Glendale, California, Rodriguez showed a keen interest in mechanics and engineering from a young age. His uncle taught him the ins and outs of car maintenance, from adjusting brakes to replacing wheel bearings.
Rodriguez was an avid participant in the car culture on Van Nuys Boulevard, and worked summer jobs in local machine shops to earn money to spend on custom hot rods.
As he neared his high school graduation, Rodriguez knew he wanted to pursue engineering, but he faced a reality check when his older brother asked how he would pay for school.
"That's when I smelled the cup of coffee next to me,” Rodriguez said. “Good morning! This is reality.”
Not long after their conversation, Rodriguez saw a military commercial promising free education through the GI Bill. Realizing this was his ticket to an accessible education, Rodriguez meticulously researched each branch before deciding to enlist in the Air Force.
The decision shocked his family, Rodriguez said, but he knew it was the right choice, and he urges anyone considering making the plunge to do so.
“I really didn’t feel like spending four years flipping hamburgers,” Rodriguez said. “I wanted a job that would guarantee what I wanted to do, and they would be able to guarantee me that in writing.”
Military service
In 1977, Rodriguez would join the Air Force under delayed enlistment as he was still under 18. He took the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery), a test designed to measure skills in general science, arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, paragraph comprehension, mathematics knowledge, electronics Information,auto and shop information and mechanical comprehension, according to Military.com
Rodriguez excelled, particularly in the fields of math, physics, electronics, and mechanics, and was selected to train as an aircraft maintenance specialist. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, where he said he experienced a culture shock at the strict discipline and regiment of military life.
But instead of feeling discouraged, Rodriguez embraced the challenge.
“If there is an obstacle in front of you, you don't focus on how tall that wall is or how big that obstacle is,” Rodriguez said. “You say, ‘how am I going to get to the other side and be able to achieve what I want to do?”
Upon completing basic training, Rodriguez attended his technical training at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas. There, Rodriguez studied the mechanics of numerous aircraft, including but not limited to the F-15 fighter and the T-38 jet.
It was a rigorous process, but Rodriguez never gave up, and his academic prowess and driven nature began to attract the attention of his instructors. As a result, Rodriguez had his choice of assignments. For domestic, he chose his home state of California, and for foreign, he chose Japan.
Rodriguez was assigned to Beale Air Force Base in California and given top-secret clearance to work on the SR-71 Blackbird, a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. The stakes were high, Rodriguez said, as the margin for error was near zero due to the urgency and importance of the missions.
Photos courtesy Alex Rodriguez
Rodriguez and his fellow Airmen in front of the SR-71s in Okinawa, Japan.
“It was a challenge,” Rodriguez said. “But I realized that I was part of a team.”
Civilian life
His four year enlistment period came and went, and soon Rodriguez found himself transitioning back to civilian life. With the GI Bill in his back pocket, Rodriguez searched for a university that offered courses in laser electro-optical engineering.
Rodriguez eventually landed on Pasadena City College, where he majored in laser electro-optical engineering with a specialization in laser systems. The rigorous courses and heavy workload resulted in a high dropout rate, but just like his time in the military, Rodriguez embraced the challenge.
“I was working part-time, trying to make some extra money to pay for my books and pay for my grants that I was doing in school,” Rodriguez said. “One of the things that you must keep in mind is that you have your goals, but it takes a tremendous amount of work to be able to show who you are and what you can do.”
He completed his degree in two-and-a-half years, and began applying for jobs. His diversified resume helped tremendously in a highly competitive field like engineering, Rodriguez said.
After several applications, Rodriguez was hired as a Technical Support Specialist in the laser systems project under the Strategic Defense Initiative, whose main purpose was to develop a space-based missile defense program that could protect the country from a large-scale nuclear attack, according to the United States Department of State archives.
While with the SDI, Rodriguez worked on things like electro-optics, lasers and target acquisition, providing advanced engineering support for national defense. He thrived in the high stakes environment once more, tackling each problem with a “can do “mindset.
“You have to be able to say to yourself, ‘I don't know enough yet, but let me find out,’” Rodriguez said.
After several years working for the U.S. government, Rodriguez transitioned into the private sector, specifically the consultative technical sales industry, where he combined his mechanical knowledge and communication skills.
Throughout his consulting career, Rodriguez worked in various industries, including semiconductor, medical, automotive and aerospace, even helping with the stereoscopic vision systems for the Mars Rover project in the 1990s. He used his knowledge of laser systems, nanometer technology and robotic systems to effectively support clients like the U.S. government, universities and private companies.
Passing the torch
Rodriguez attributes his success to his ability to “speak the language” of multiple industries, a skill he learned throughout his time in the military and the public sector.
“You have to have a diverse background to be able to deal with different types of people with different rules and different companies, and you need to be able to cover those aspects quite effectively,” Rodriguez said.
He hopes his story will inspire younger generations to tirelessly pursue their dreams, and face whatever challenges they may encounter.
“It is very important that you achieve what you want to achieve, but be aware that there's a price that you have to pay,” Rodriguez concluded. “It takes perseverance, motivation. Not everything that you do in life you get taught in school— you learn it on your own. You have to push yourself.”
Alex Rodriguez in a lab circa 1983.
Rodriguez hopes his story will inspire the next generation of thinkers.
WREATHS across AMERICA AMERICA
Sponsored by Lichty Building Group & Auld House Design
Honoring a son’s sacrifice (Michael Stokely) and a father’s dedication(Robert Stokely).
Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.
Captain Nicholas Schade Whitlock Foundation
POW MIA
Sgt. Devers E. Bryant U.S. Army POW
American Theatre Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon with three Bronze Battle Stars, WWII Victory Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart
Saluted by Connie B. Posey
Ernest Weston Caldwell U.S. Army MIA Purple Heart
Saluted by Jeane Yancey
Charlie Hall
U.S. Army MIA WWII
Normandy Invasion, D-Day, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Parachuist Badge, Gold Star
Saluted by Gold Star Luminary Committee
2nd Rank Airman Frank Carmical U.S. Air Force POW
Saluted by six daughters, family, numerous friends
Top Sargent Lester A. Griffin
U.S. Army Air Corps POW Germany
WWII Flight Enginner
Saluted by Bette Hickman
Air Echelon 825th Squadron
U.S. Army Air Corps KIA & POW
Four KIA , Six POW Saluted by Susan Whatley
Sitting from left: Harley Jackson, A.L. Robinson, Thad Walker, E.D. Rodgers. Standing from left: J.D. Harris, Alex Palmer, Jack Golden, F.J. Schoen, J.F. Scarborough, C.E. McLellan. This crew was shot down on mission #72 on Aug. 20, 1944. Rodgers, Schoen, Scarborough and McLellan were killed. The rest of the crew were POWs until the end of the war.
2nd Lt Arlen Lee Robinson
U.S. Army Air Corps POW
WWII, Air Medal Decoration, shot down by friendly fire Saluted by The Robinson & Whatley Families
Mst. Sgt. Joseph Drake Air, Army National Guard, Georgia Air National Guard, National Defense, Expert Marchman POW Saluted by Brenda
Major Lee Stephens
U.S. Army POW Saluted by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Camp
Drake, Vickie Gunnin
Tributed by the family of Charles M. Smith
Veterans Fishing Organization:
Turning the tide in veteran mental health
WRITTEN BY WILL THOMAS
Alocal nonprofit is making waves in the veteran community. The Veterans Fishing Organization (VFO) was founded in 2015 by Ken Bearden, a former professional bull rider and fisherman from Anniston, Ala. The organization, based in Lagrange, Ga., exists to provide military veterans with an opportunity for recreation and renewal through guided freshwater fishing and wildlife observation on lakes across Georgia and neighboring states.
With nearly 30 years of competitive fishing experience and 20 years as a guide, Bearden’s trophy cabinet is full of accolades, including titles such as Georgia State Championship and West Point Lake Coalition Fisherman of the Year.
But to Bearden, the titles are eclipsed by the time he gets to spend with veterans out on the water.
Honoring those who serve
As a kid, Bearden lived near Fort McClellan, a large United States Army base located next to his hometown.
Bearden often saw military personnel around town and would frequently hear their training operations in the distance.
His hometown environment instilled Bearden with a reverence for those who served in the military. Bearden discovered the perfect outlet for his patriotism when he established the Veteran Fishing Organization in honor of his best friend Joe Gilham, a Vietnam veteran who passed away in 2012.
Gilham loved to fish, Bearden said, but he suffered from Lou Gehrig’s disease, which left him unable to lift his left arm more than four inches in the air. Bearden taught Gilham various techniques that made fishing with his affliction possible, and the pair ended up fishing together for years, competing in various competitions across the Southeast.
In 2012, Gilham was diagnosed with lung cancer, and doctors said he had just over a year left to live. Bearden and Gilham continued fishing together until the latter’s passing in 2013
But a conversation with Gilham’s wife, Marie, after his passing was a watershed moment in Bearden’s life.
“She said he got so down and so depressed with the doctors telling him he had a year,” Bearden said. “He was just miserable, he just got so depressed. He wouldn't do anything but sit in the recliner. He wouldn't talk to his friends on the phone. She said when we lined up a day to go fishing, next thing she knew, he's out there in the garage tying on fishing lures and getting his rods and his tackle ready to go fishing. She said, ‘you don't know how much that has done for me to see him up out of that recliner and out there fooling with his fishing stuff, anticipating getting to go do something that he loved to do.’”
Inspired by the memory of his best friend, and wanting to help others who served his country, Bearden began researching a nonprofit that would offer free guided fishing trips for military veterans, including but not limited to those with physical disabilities and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
His research revealed a surprising lack of freshwater fishing groups for veterans despite the high concentration of veterans in the Southeast. In 2015, Bearden made the plunge, and started the Veterans Fishing Organization.
The nonprofit offers free freshwater fishing trips for all military veterans. Bearden arranges the meeting, provides all equipment, and acts as a personal fishing guide for a day on the water.
With a focus on accessibility for all, trips with the Veteran Fishing Organization come at no cost to the veteran, and Bearden strives to provide accommodations to those with physical disabilities.
The group immediately hit the ground running, completing approximately 80 trips in its first year.
In addition to one-on-one trips, Bearden began hosting a free veteran fishing tournament in 2017 where veterans are paired with a volunteer partner for a friendly competition amongst each other.
Each tournament averages anywhere from 30 to 40 veterans, Bearden said, and is a great outlet for conversation and comradery amongst peers. Veterans interested in signing up can contact Bearden at kenwithvfo@gmail.com.
Photos courtesy Ken Bearden
Ken Bearden, left, and George Middleton, right, smile after a successful catch.
Since its founding, a total of 1,053 veterans have fished through the Veteran Fishing Organization, which takes an average of 130 fishing trips per year.
More than fishing
Samuel Fillers and Norbert Bergstresser are two individuals from the long list of veterans helped by the VFO since 2015.
Fillers, an Army veteran with 15 years of service, and Bergstresser, an Air Force veteran with 20 years of service, both experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Fillers heard about Bearden and the VFO through Facebook, where he says his wife, Candy, discovered the group while searching for ways to help with his PTSD.
“I was looking for something to help me heal other than alcohol and other vices,” Fillers said. “So I gave Ken a call, and he took me out and never once looked down on me. He always talked to me, not at me, and treated me with empathy and respect, regardless of what my situation was. He never delved too deep and wanted to know what my condition was. He was just open and ready to help me.”
“It's nice to get on a boat and go out and sit in water and watch the ospreys and the eagles and catch a couple of fish here and there. It's a different type of healing,” he continued.
Since then, Bearden and Fillers have fished together on seven different occasions, developing a close bond along the way.
“If I'm having a bad day, I know that I can call Ken, and if nothing else, he's going to pick up that phone and talk to us, and more than talk, he's going to listen, and he's going to ask, ‘Hey, do you need to go out?You want me to take you out?’ He's going to give you that option to help you, because he knows that that's what helped so many of us,” Fillers said.
Bergstresser has a similar story. He heard about the VFO through a work associate and decided to give Bearden a call.
Bergstresser enjoyed fishing, he said, but often couldn’t go as he lacked a boat, and moreso, his wife Alice didn’t want him fishing by himself.
But to the couple, the Veteran Fishing Organization seemed the perfect fit.
“He’s (Bearden) very calm, very patient. He concentrates on finding the fish. It's not about him getting enjoyment. It's all focused on the veteran. So the veteran gets an opportunity to catch the biggest and most fish possible. He will bend over backwards, trying all types of bait, all types of techniques,”
Bergstresser said.
He, too, developed a friendship with Bearden, one that transcended their numerous outings together.
“He cares so much about us. The smile on his face, that seems to be his reward. He has a purpose. He truly respects us veterans,” Bergstresser said.
Looking ahead
The biggest challenge thus far, Bearden said, is fundraising.
The Veterans Fishing Organization is fully funded through donations and grants. The community’s support is vital to the VFO, Bearden said.
Anyone interested in donating to the Veterans Fishing Organization or scheduling a trip can visit their website at https://www.vfohome.org/ or contact Bearden at kenwithvfo@gmail.com
“That's been the hardest part for me, raising money. It's a community effort,” Bearden said.
Yet, despite the challenges of operation, Bearden refuses to charge his veterans.
“They've already made the ultimate sacrifice. When you spend time with them and you see the injuries and how hard it is for some to just get around and some of the things that they deal with – while keeping the wars overseas and keeping us safe – they've done the ultimate sacrifice, and not only them, the families too,” Bearden said.
“No, they've done enough,” he concluded. “It's time for us to step up and give back to them.”
Bob Bradley shows off a fruitful haul.
Shane’s Pest Solutions presents...
Quilts Valor of
The Mission of the Quits of Valor® Foundation is to cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.
No matter where I’ve been in this world, my mom, Thelma Loftin, wrote to me. When I was in Iraq in 2003, it was her letters and prayers that helped strengthen and protect me. I was so honored to receive my Quilt of Valor on her birthday, December 5th. This quilt provides me with comfort and peace. And certainly reminds me of mama’s commitment to always let me know that she was thinking about me and praying for me.
-Shane
In loving memory of
Carolyn Sewell Turner
President, Brown’s Mill Battlefield Association
Signage records the 7-30-1864 Coweta battle site, on the Natl Register of Historic Places, which engages historians, walkers & bikers as they experience its trails.
John M. Stuckey, Jr.
• Historian
• U.S. Army Ranger, Vietnam
• Intelligence O cer, e Pentagon
• LSU Tigers Fastball Pitcher
• Administrative Asst, U.S. Senator Brock, R-TN
• Richard M. Nixon Presidential Advisor
• Legal Counsel, Brock Candy Co
• Atlanta & Newnan A orney at Law
• Farmer, Roanoke Farm, Newnan
• 1987 State of GA GOP Party Chairman
• Son
• Husband
• Father
• Grandfather
• Loyal Friend
e last salute...
Sponsored by e Camp Firm LLC
omas H. “Harry” Camp A orney
Tails of Hope was founded in 2020 as a 501(c)3 organization but the genesis began long before that. In 2013, their sister organization, Coco’s Cupboard, began partnering with a local group whose mission was to assist military service members and veterans to lead healthy, productive lives. We loved connecting those who are wounded or suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Traumatic Brain Injury with ADA-compliant service dogs. Overtime, as our program grew, so began the start of the Tails of Hope journey.
We treat small animals and exotics.
Rodney Riggs: A legacy of service and humility
WRITTEN BY WILL THOMAS
To Rodney Riggs, life is all about helping others. With a law enforcement career that spanned 41 years, a military career that spanned 26 years, and a lifetime of community involvement, Riggs epitomizes the Marine mantra, “always faithful.”
“It helped me become a man,” Riggs said. “Going to the Marines, I learned discipline, organization, people skills, the kind of things that you may not think that Marines learned, but those were some of the things that I learned and have served me well since those days.”
Riggs’s roots
Born in 1953 in Atlanta, Riggs moved to Newnan in 1967 where he attended Newnan High School. After graduating in 1971, he briefly attended West Georgia College, but soon opted for a different path – the United States Marine Corps.
“It was an easy decision for me to make,” Riggs said.
He comes from a military family. His father served in the United States Navy during World War 2.
“My mother wasn't happy at all, but my dad was proud that I was going in,” Riggs said.
Riggs was sent to the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in 29 Palms, Calif., where he studied electronics and microwave radio systems. He remained in California for several months as part of the Ninth Communications Battalion before being sent to Iwakuni, Japan, in 1973.
Photo courtesy Rodney Riggs Rodney Riggs and his wife Susan.
In 1974, Riggs's enlistment period concluded, and he returned home to Newnan. There, he signed up for the Marine Corp Reserves before landing a job at the Newnan Police Department.
Riggs was hired as a narcotics investigator for the first drug squad in the NPD. The early days of his career were spent investigating drugs, burglaries, and fraud cases. As the city grew, so too did their workload.
In November of 1990, Riggs was called back to active duty, serving in Operation Desert Storm in the 4th LAAD (Low Altitude Air Defense) Battalion. After completing advanced training at the Marine Corps Air Station in Cherry Point, N.C., they were deployed to Saudi Arabia in January 1991.
Riggs’s unit, equipped with the Stinger shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missile, were pivotal in providing defense against air attacks at key points.
Three months later, Riggs and other members of the armed forces were welcomed home with a parade and celebration at Newnan High School’s Drake Stadium. Upon his return, Riggs resumed his role with the Newnan Police Department, where he would spend the next 25 years and retire with the rank of Deputy Chief in 2016.
Community involvement
But Riggs’s service didn’t stop once he hung up his hat. Instead, he shifted his attention to community engagement.
“You know, we've all served our time, so to speak, but we're still living in our communities,” he said. “Our families are here, our children are here. We go to church here. So it's important for us to continue to invest in our communities.”
Riggs is a longtime member of the Sgt. Clyde Thomason Medal of Honor Detachment #1325 of the Marine Corps League, having served in a number of offices, both elected and appointed. He has assisted the group in fund-raising activities including golf tournaments and flag giveaways. He is a long-standing member of the Color Guard and participates in the Fallen Marine program.
Riggs has been active in the Toys for Tots program as both a participant and leader.
The program has, in past years, provided toys for over 6,000 children in the local area at Christmas.
In 2014, Riggs was named Veteran of the Year by the American Legion Post 57. In 2020, he was named the Coweta/Fayette “Marine of the Year” for his exemplary leadership and commitment to community service.
But, according to Rodney Riggs, he’s just proud to have served alongside so many who sacrificed everything for their country.
“It’s probably one of the proudest moments of my life,” Riggs said. “I learned a lot from the Marine Corps that I use today in everything I do. You don't necessarily have to be the front person. You don't necessarily have to be the one that gets patted on the back. Just the opportunity to serve and to serve in a quiet way.”
It’s time to recognize the unsung heroes who don’t have the spotlight, Riggs said.
“They're the backbone of any military organization,” Riggs concluded. “They're the ones that do the work. They're the ones who do the blood, sweat and the tears, and so it's important that they're recognized and that we take time out for those who have been injured or didn't come back and that we celebrate their accomplishments.”
Newnan Times-Herald File Photo Riggs honored at his retirement reception after 41 years with the Newnan Police Department.
Photo by Emily Hernandez Rodney Riggs pictured in uniform at Veterans’ Memorial Park in Newnan.
Aunt Samantha Family of
Staff Sergeant Peter A Schumacher Marines
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (OIF),Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2nd award,) , Global War on Terrorism Medal, IRAQ Campaign Medal (OIF), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal (2nd Award), Armed Forces Reserve Medal (2nd award) , Presidential Unit Citation Navy, National Defense Service Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
PFC Jason Lettis Army - Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, Expert
Major Thomas M. Loehle Marines Joint Service Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Navy and Marine COrps Achievement Medal (2nd award), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (4th award), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service ribbon, National Defense Service Medal (2nd award), Global War on Terrorism Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy "E" Ribbon/ Navy "E" Battle "E" Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation (2nd award), NATO Medal-ISAF Afghanistan
Pvt. Matthew J. Loehle Army - Korea
Pvt Dylan M. Maki Marine Reservist
Lt Ryan Schumacher Navy Joint Service Achievement Medal
James V. Loehle Coast Guard Reserves
Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar
What is a Veteran? ...through the eyes of a child
Harley Lettis
Henry McCracken
Jack Camp
Captain Edward R. Aanstoos U.S. Navy
Saluted by Erich & Kathleen Aanstoos
Erich Aanstoos U.S. Navy
Saluted by Loving Wife
Billy Alford U.S. Army In Loving Memory
Billy Alford U.S. Army
Saluted by Alford, Schmidt & Holmes families
Dankert A. Arnesen Jr. U.S. Army WWII
Purple Heart
Saluted by Deborah Arnesen
Dankert A. Arnesen III
U.S. Air Force 1967-1970
Saluted by Deborah Arnesen
Sgt E5 Rhonda Arnesen U.S. Army
3 tours Iraq, 1 Afghanistan
Saluted by Deborah Arnesen
Ret. Sgt Major Charles Atkinson U.S. Army Legion all Merit Love from your Wife, Children, Grandchildren
Ronald ‘Andy’ Anderson U.S. Navy Saluted by his family
SGT Melvin Bailey
U.S. Air Force
Saluted by Patrice Bailey, Wife
Cpl Ruben W. Bailey
U.S. Army
Saluted by Melvin Bailey, brother
Com Sgt. Zellus Bailey
U.S. A rmy
Saluted by Melvin Bailey, brother
Saluted by Mom, Robin, Jay & Will
Kenneth David Benson
U. S. Ar my
Saluted by family
James O. Berry Army Airborne
Purple Heart, Retired Paratrooper
Saluted by Latimore Berry Inc
Frederick Dennis Badger, Jr.
U.S. Marines
Purple Heart, Bronze star
Saluted by Julie Badger Bexley
Charles R. Banks
U.S. Marines
Bronze Star
Saluted by Mom, Linda Banks
Michael Bethke Army Security A gency
Saluted by Family
George V. Black, Sr.
U.S. Marines
Purple Heart
Saluted by Edward Black, Kevin Black, George Black Jr.,Adrain Black
Duke Cole Blackburn U.S. Army
Saluted by Bob & Jenni Blackburn
Debra A. Bouchard
U.S. Army Saluted by family
Jeffrey M. Bouchard U.S. Army
Saluted by family
Nicholas J. Bouchard
U.S. Marines
Saluted by family
Army Captain Kristina Boone
U.S. Army
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Petty Officer 3 rd class Barbara ‘BB’ Robichaud Boone U.S. Navy
2019 Coweta County Veteran of the year
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Sue Ann Bienick Army Nurse Vietnam 1967-1971
Glenn Bexley
U.S. Air Force
Saluted by his family
Robert Edward ‘Reb’ Boggs U.S. Army
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Seaman Tryston Boyd U.S. Navy
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Michael F. Bryant Sr. U.S. Navy
Saluted by Latimore Berry Inc
Lt. Col Dr. Matt Burns
U.S. Air Force
Saluted by Wife, Pat Burns
Henry L. Camp
U.S. Air Force
324th Fighter Group
Saluted by Katie Camp & Family
CPT Jack Camp
U.S. Army
Saluted by your family
Corporal Jack T. Camp
U.S. Marines
Saluted by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Camp
Tristan & Libby Boyd U.S. Army
Saluted by Christopher Peek
Pascal W. Camp U.S. Army
Saluted by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Camp
Larry C. Chome
U.S. Army
Saluted by spouse Rebecca S. Chome
Johnny Brussel Chapman Sr. U.S. Army WWII
Saluted by The Coe Family
Sgt. Angela Coe-Vinson Army Nurse Iraq Freedom and Afghanistan From one hero to another
MSgt Luther L. Coe
U.S. Army WWII, Korea
Saluted by The Coe Family
Sgt. Luther L. Coe II U.S. Army Vietnam
Saluted by The Coe Family
Staff Sgt. Luther ‘Luke’ L. Coe III U.S. Army Desert Storm Saluted by The Coe Family
Jonathon M. Camper U.S. Army Saluted by family
Phillip C. Camper U.S. Air Force Saluted by family
Gary W. Cauthen U.S. Army
Saluted by Marie, Matthew, Jennifer, Lily
U.S. Army
U.S.
2 air
William Alton Collins
U.S. Army
Combat infantryman badge, Army commedation medal
Saluted by Claudia Collins
James Nathan ‘Nate’ Collinsworth
Saluted by Jeff & Beth Collinsworth
John Edward Cottrell
Air Force
medals for rescues in 1993, He was a T-38 instructor pilot and a Jolly Green Rescue Blackhawk pilot
Saluted by Vickie Cottrell
Brian Crawford
U.S. Marines
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Colonel Jesse H. Crossett U.S. Army
Saluted by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Camp
Len Clark Crowder
U.S. Air Force
Saluted by Sophia & Harry Camp
Ret. Major Michael J. ‘Mad Mike’ Cwikla U.S. Army/ Infantry Korea, Bronze Star Saluted by Daughter, Marilyn Cuptis
Terry Daviston U.S. Army Saluted by Family & Friends
1st Lt. William ‘Bill’ Dailey
Ret. Army, National Guard
WWII New Guinea, Army Transportation Operations in Germany
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
U.S. Army
Gina & Joseph DeGennaro
Army Airborne Artic Angels
U.S.
U.S. Air Force
2 tours Vietnam
U.S. Army
U.S.
U.S.
Zachary East
Saluted by your proud sister, Kelsie Ferrell
Jessie Michael Edmondson
Saluted by Debby Arnesen, Class of WFG ‘69
Alex Elliott U.S. Navy
Saluted by Family & Friends
Jerry Evans
Army
Saluted by wife & children
Dan Fambro
Air Force
Saluted by family
Lt. Col Patrick Finneran
USMC Retired
Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service, Medal w/Gold Star, Air Medal #2, Navy Commendation Medal w/Combat & Gold Star, Navy Achievement Medal, Campaign & Service Medals, Vietnam Combat Veteran Saluted by Dr. Pamela Johnson
Prvt. 1st Class Michael
Richard DeGennaro
Saluted by Proud parents
Richard Dixon
Saluted by Jodie & Chris Hobbs
Col. Danny East
Army
Legion of Merit, Meritorious Svc, Army Commendation
Saluted by Sgt. Donald ‘Don’ Raymond Simmons
Henry J. Freeman
U.S. Army
Vietnam 1969-1970, Purple Heart, Bronze Star Saluted by family
Master Chief Petty Officer
Henry ‘Nathan’ Freeman
U.S. Navy
Saluted by family
Sgt. 1st Class Jessie Freeman Army Retired
Operation Enduring Freedom 3 Veteran, Iraq campaign medal w/ 2 campaign stars, Global war on terrorism expedecinary medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Defense Merritorius Service Medal, 3 Merritorius Service Medals, Joint Service Commodation Medal, 5 Army Commodation Medals, 3 Army Acheivement Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, 7 Good conduct medals, 3 Overseas service ribbons, 5 NCO professional development ribbon, Gold Recruiter Badge w/ 3 star sapphires
Saluted by Family & Friends & NHS Class of 1999
U.S. Marines
Vietnam Service Medal w/ 1 star, Vietnam Service
Saluted by Widow, Elizabeth Crawford-Gaines
U.S. Marines
Saluted by Mark & Joanie Clepper
WWII
Miles Pendleton Gaines
Medal w/ Device
Charles D. ‘Bill’ Garner
U.S. Army
purple heart
Saluted by Garner Family
Scott Owen Garner Air Force Retired
Operation Enduring Freedom
Saluted by Garner Family
Ret. Master Sgt. Marcus K. Gould
U.S. Army Saluted by Mars Meriwether
Eddie Gladney U.S. Army
Saluted by Debby Arnesen, Class of WFG ‘69
Carl J. Hewell
U.S. Army WWII
Saluted by Walker-Hewell Families
Lt. John W. Hickman Navy Reserves Gulf War
Saluted by Bette Hickman
Eric Gunnell Hines
U.S. Navy
Saluted by Brenda & Carlton Clark, Linda & Toney Rhodes, Wylene & Claudell Phillips
Johnny Hodo Sr. U.S. Air Force
Saluted by family
Johnny Hodo Jr. U.S. Army
Saluted by family
Master SGT. Linard Foster Holcomb Retired Marines
2 tours Vietnam, Guantanamo Bay Missles of October Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Steve Hackler U.S. Army
Saluted by Debby Arnesen Class of WFG ‘69
Stinson T. Hammond Army WWII Silver star
Saluted by Hammond/Hardy Family
G.D. Hendrix
U.S. Army & Marines
Thank you for all you do
Douglas Holmes U.S. Air Force
Saluted by Alford, Schmidt & Holmes Families
CDR Arthur Brian Horsley U.S. Navy
Saluted by The Horsley Family
Col Arthur Scott Horsley USAF Reserve
Saluted by The Horsley Family
Corporal Barney F. Houston U.S. Marines
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Private 2nd Class Gary L. Houston
U.S. Army
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Sgt 1st Class Harold Houston Jr. U.S. Army Bronze Star
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Sgt. Harold Houston Sr. U.S. Army
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Private 1st Class Thomas H. Houston U.S. Army
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
MM2 (Seabee) Merlin Ray Houston U.S. Navy WWII
Saluted by The Horsley Family
U.S.
U.S.
James ‘Billy’ Kent
Navy
Saluted by Debby Arnesen Class of WFG ‘69
LTC Charles Wesley King
Army
Bronze Star Medal (Oak Leaf Cluster) Air Medal (5th award), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3 OLC), Army Commendation Medal (OLC), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal (2OLC), Combact Action Badge, Master Aviator Badge, Air assault badge, Eagle Scout Saluted by Marilyn King
SFC Charles H. King, Jr.
U.S. Army
Korean Service Medal (2 bronze campaign stars) United Nations Service Medal, Eagle Scout Saluted by Audrey King
Col (Ret) Charles H. King III
U.S. Army
Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2nd award), Meritorious Service Medal (5th award), DeFleury Medal (Silver and Bronze), Eagle Scout, Army Commendation Medal (5th award) Saluted by Marilyn King
Senior Chief Petty OFC E8 Timothy Frederick King
U.S. Coast Guard
CG Achievement medal, CG Unit Commendation, CG Meritorious Unit Commendation, CG Bicentennial Unit Commendation, CG Sharpshooter (pistol), National Defense Servcie Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, CG Expert Rifle Marksmanship, Secretary’s Outstanding unit award, CG Good Conduct Medal (6th), Eagle Scout Saluted by Charles H. King III
LTC. Kenneth Lou Koon Army Chaplain Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Joe H. Houston U.S. Army Vietnam
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Lt. Col. Joe Madison Jackson U.S. Air Force
Medal of Honor, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal (4), Legion of Merit From one hero to another
Sgt Major Mike Junda
U.S. Army
Meritorious Svc Medal (two), Army Commendation Medal (4), Army reserve components medal, armed forces reserve medal
Saluted by Sgt. Donald R. Simmons- USAF
Daniel Lichty
U.S. Coast Guard
Saluted by Megan Lichty
Gary W. Long U.S. Navy Vietnam
Saluted by family
Nick Long U.S. Marines
Saluted by family
Wiley G. Long Sr. U.S. Navy WWII
Saluted by family
Wiley G. Long Jr. U.S. Army Vietnam
Saluted by family
Rodger Loughrey
U.S. Army
Vietnam
Saluted by your favorite grandchild, Emily
Kay Wayne Mack
U.S. Air Force
Vietnam Veteran, Air Force Meritorious Service Award, Air Force Commendation Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal
Saluted by Janet Robertson
Major Peter Merrill U.S. Marines
Saluted by 9/11 Candlelight Vigil Committee
PV2 C Colman ‘Joseph’ Meadows III U.S. Army
Never Forgotten
Emmett J.C. Neill U.S. Army Veitnam
Saluted by siblings Shirley M. Long & Sheildan Hayes
Franklin A. Neill U.S. Army
Saluted by siblings Shirley M. Long & Sheildan Hayes
Navy Petty Officer Mechanic William Aubrey Newsom U.S. Navy
Gold Star Saluted by The Boone Family
U.S.
David Nichols U.S. Army Vietnam Saluted by Debby Arnesen Class of WFG ‘69
Marc Nieto U.S. Navy
Gold Star. Engineman Second Class (Surface Warfare Specialist) Nieto was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and Navy Unit Commendation. He held numerous awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, letters of commendation, letters of appreciation, designation as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, and Junior ‘Determined Warrior’ Saluted by Friends of Marine Dad Jesse Nieto
SGT. Jonathon Olson
Army
Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan Campaign medal w/ campaign star, Army Commendation medal (2nd), USAF Commendation medal, Army Achievement medal, Army Achievement medal (2nd), Valourous Unit Award, Army good conduct medal (2nd), National Defense service medal, Global war on Terrorism medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Non-commisioned Officer Professional Developement ribbon, army Service ribbon, NATO medal, Parachute badge Saluted by Grandmother Barbara Downey
Lt. Col Stuart Metcalfe U.S. Air Force Saluted by Your family
David L. Mitchell
U.S. Air Force
Vietnam Service Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medals with Oak Leaf Clusters Saluted by Family & Friends
Cpl Richard H. Morris U.S. Army Korean War Saluted by proud wife
E3 An Sandy O’Neal U.S. Navy
Saluted by 9/11 Candlelight Vigil Committee
CPL Troy William Peak
U.S. Marines
51-53 w/ 13 months in Korea, Photo includes Mount Suribachi-Iwo Jima
Saluted by David Peak & Paula Wells
Sgt. Scott Owens
U.S. Marines
Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Letter of Commendation, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Good, Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Humanitarian Service Medal, Kuwait, Liberation Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy and, Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal Period Commences, Meritorious Unit Commendation
Saluted by Henry & Harrison & Hugh Griffin
SSGT Greg Peters
U.S. Air Force
Saluted by 9/11 Candlelight Vigil Committee
Rob Paslay U.S. Navy
Special Welfare Operator 1st class, Navy Achievement medal and Combat Action Ribbon, Purple Heart, SO1(AC) *Air Traffic Controller on 9/11
Saluted by 9/11 Candlelight Vigil Committee
U.S.
Maj. Stephen Wesley Pless
Marines
Vietnam War, Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star, Air Medal, Bronze Star Medal, purple heart, Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, Congressional Medal of Honor From one hero to another
Pless-Jackson MOH VFW Post 2667 & Auxiliary All Branches Saluted by Post 2667
SGT. Major Rodney Riggs U.S. Marines
Operation Desert Shield / Desert Storm
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
1st Sgt. AEF John Herman Robinson U.S. Army
WWI, Victory medal, battle clasp, Gallantry in action at Meuse Argonne Saluted by The Thomas & Robinson Families
Kenneth Rosser U.S. Marines Saluted by Your loving family
Tony Rosser U.S. Army
Saluted by wife Patricia York Rosser
Signalman 1st Class Petty Officer David Ruiz U.S. Navy
Navy Good conduct medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, Navy Occupational Medal w/ European Clasp, China Service Medal Saluted by Marilyn Ruiz King
Jason ‘Jake’ Salyards U.S. Navy Russian Linguist, Intelligent Specialist Saluted by Julie & Don Chapman
Staff Sgt. Willie Theron Powell U.S. Army
Saluted by Lynn and Vickey
E8 Charles M. Reeves U.S. Navy
Saluted by Lila Reeves & Wes, Sarah R
Larry Reeves U.S. Army Saluted by Sisters Leslie and Marlene
U.S.
National
82nd Airborne Army
Air & Space Longevity Service
National Defense Service
Air Force Good Conduct
Air Force
Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, SO# GB-152,
Saluted by Sgt. James ‘Ed’ Edward Simmons, BM3 Robert ‘Bob’
Vietnam Veteran w/240 Combat Missions, Distinguished Flying Cross
Saluted by Wife Linda, Children & Grandchildren
U.S.
John L. Scott
Army
Saluted by Adrienne Scott-Reaves & Jimmy Reaves
Mark Scott
U.S. Air Force
Saluted by Erin, Madison & Everett, Ella
Ret. Major George R. ‘Randy’ Sewell U.S. Air Force
Odell W. Sheriff Jr.
defense service medal, parachutte badge
Saluted by his wife & family
Sgt. Donald ‘Don’ Raymond Simmons
U.S. Air Force
Award,
Medal,
Medal,
Medal,
Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon
Daniel Simmons
Sgt. James (Ed) Edward Simmons
Air Force
National defense svc medal, Vietnam Svc Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal
Saluted by Sgt. Donald “Don” Raymond Simmons
BM3 Robert ‘Bob’ Daniel Simmons U.S. Coast Guard Presidential Unit Commendation
Saluted by Sgt. Donald “Don” Raymond Simmons
Corporal Willie K. Sims U.S. Army Korea
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Jerry B. Sims U.S. Army
Saluted by Lynn, Vickey, Mickey & Family
Raymond Charles Snyder U.S. Navy
Saluted by Daughter Rebecca S. Chome
Sgt Corey Spivey U.S. Marines
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
A.W. Steed U.S. Army Purple heart
Saluted by Marian Steed
Terry Stapleton U.S. Navy
Thank you for your service, I love you WOW! -Mom
Lee Ray Storey U.S. Army
Saluted by Garner Family
Render Hugh Storey U.S. Army Vietnam
Saluted by twin sister Brenda Storey Hughes
David Sisson U.S. Navy
Saluted by Debby Arnesen Class of WFG ‘69
1st Lt. Charles M. Smith U.S. Army Bronze Star
Saluted by Wife Lynn, Daughters: Martha Lynn & Jackie
Andrew Charles Snyder U.S. Army WWII
Saluted by Granddaughter Rebecca S. Chomee
U.S.
U.S.
Marine aviator, Global war on Terrorism expeditionary medal, national defense service medal, sea service deployment ribbon, Navy & Marine Corps achievement medal, expert rifle qualification badge (1), sharpshooter pistol qualification badge, Air medal-strike/flight, letter of appreciation Saluted 9/11 Candlelight Vigil Committee
U.S.
U.S.
Thomas E. Storey Jr.
Air Force
Saluted by Patty, Trip and Tyler Storey
Lt. Col Andrew ‘Drew’ Straessle
Marines
Joe W. Strickland
Air Force
Cuban Missile Crisis, USAF combat readiness medal
Saluted by Wife Linda
Captain Gordon W. Thomas U.S. Army Purple heart
Saluted by Sophia & Harry Camp
1st Class Petty Ofc Ray E. Thomas U.S. Navy
Saluted by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Camp
James Leon Thompson U.S. Army Korean War
Saluted by Granddaughter Allison Thompson Williams
Capt. Roger L. Thompson
U.S. Marines
Defense Meritorious Service medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal 2nd award, Navy & Marine Corps achievement medal w/combat V 3rd award, Combat action ribbon, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal 4th award, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon 7th award, Marine Corps Recruiting Ribbion
Saluted by Allison Thompson Williams, cousin
Lamar Thrasher
U.S. Army
Saluted by Debby Arnesen Class of WFG ‘69
Staff Sgt. E-6 William Roger Thompson
Marines
National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/Device, Vietnam Service Medal w/five stars, Presidential Unti Citation, Republic of VIetnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Cross of Gallantry with Palm), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Good Conduct medal w/ 3 stars, Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, Pistol Marksman Badge
Saluted by Roger Thompson
MSgt. Kenneth R. Uhl
U.S. Air Force
Meritrorius Medal, Air Medal, Aerial Achievement, Vietnam Service, Southwest Asia & Saudia Arabian Medal, Kuwait Liberation
Saluted by Jen, Mel, Ashleigh & Clarissa Uhl
James Darry Walker Sr. U.S. Army Korea
Saluted by Walker-Gipson Families
James Roscoe Walker U.S. Navy WWII
Saluted by The Walker Family
Teddy Leo Walker U.S. Army Vietnam
Saluted by The Walker Family
C. Raymond Walls U.S. Marines
Saluted byBarb, Amber, Brittney, Shelby, Warren
Brian Ward U.S. Army
Bronze Star
Saluted by kids & grandkids
Hector Luis Tirado U.S. Army
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Hector Luis Tirado II U.S. Army
Saluted by 9/11 Candlelight Vigil Committee
Hector Luis Tirado III U.S. Army
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Thank you for your service
Robert Ward U.S. Army
Ret. Lt. Col. Paul A. Watkins U.S. Army
Saluted by family
Wilson Henderson Whatley U.S. Army WWII
Saluted by The Whatley & Robinson Families
James Wendell Whitlock Sr. Navy Seabee 1944-1946
2012 Veteran of the Year
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
James Wendell Whitlock II U.S. Navy
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
James Wendell Whitlock III
U.S. Army
Iraq campaign medal w/two campaign stars, Army commendation medal, joint service achievement medal (2nd award), Army Achievement medal, Army good conduct medal (2nd medal), National Defense Service Medal, Global war on terrorism service medal, Army service ribbon
Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
James Wendell Whitlock IV U.S. Navy Saluted by Friends of Aunt Samantha
Larry James Williams Jr. U.S. Navy Saluted by family
SGT Marcus E. Whitlock, Sr. Army 450 th Bombardment Group Saluted by family
Carol Yates Commander Navy Nurse Corps Desert Storm
Saluted by Ray Yates & Pruit Family
Lt. Ray Yates U.S. Navy USS Guadal Canal LPH-7
Saluted by Carol Yates & Trout Family
Alvin York U.S. Army Saluted by Sherry York
Sgt. Arthur Norman Young U.S. Army
Saluted by Patrice Young Bailey, Daughter
Jeff Wilson U.S. Army
Saluted by The Walker & Wilson Families
Patrick Henry Yancey Jr. U.S. Navy
Saluted by Jeane Yancey
Stanley Yarbrough U.S. Air Force Saluted by Phillip & Mary
Phillip Yarbrough Jr. U.S. Navy Saluted by Phillip & Mary
From Newnan to the Argonne John Herman Robinson:
WRITTEN BY WILL THOMAS
(Editor’s Note: John Herman Robinson is the great-grandfather of Newnan Times-Herald reporter Will Thomas.)
At 21 years old, most young adults are away at college or starting a new career, but not John Robinson. Robinson spent his 21st year in the trenches of the Argonne Forest, with the thunderous clap of artillery above and the frozen, rat-infested mud below. Before he could graduate college, before he could start a family, Robinson was thrust into one of the most devastating conflicts in history as an infantryman in World War 1.
Humble beginnings
Robinson was born in Pickens County, S.C. in 1897. Not much is known of his early life before he enlisted in the army in 1915 at the age of 17.
Mary John Thomas, one of Robinson’s seven children, recalled hearing about her father’s upbringing.
“He was the third child. He had 10 siblings,” Thomas said.
According to records provided by Thomas, her father joined the army in 1915 at age 17, lying about his age to the enlistment office and providing a birth certificate that displayed a false birth date.
He was assigned to Company E of the 26th Infantry, who were known as the Blue Spaders. The name refers to the Regimental shield, which consisted of the Mohawk arrowhead, according to Bluespader.org.
In 1916, prior to the United States’ involvement in World War 1. Robinson was stationed on the Texas-Mexico border and given orders to watch for Pancho Villa and other roaming bandits of the time.
But when America entered the global conflict, Robinson and his company received their orders. They were to set sail for France as some of the first United States troops in World War 1.
“He was one of the first to go over and one of the last to come back,” Thomas said.
Across the pond
On June 14, 1917, Robinson sailed to France and arrived with the American Expeditionary Forces. He spent the next 16 months fighting on the front lines in France and Germany.
“He told us that one time he spent 72 days in the trenches without a bath,” Thomas recalled.
Robinson’s first combat experience came at the Luneville Sector, a minor defensive operation that introduced the First Infantry to trench warfare.
From there, he fought at the Toul Sector and Cantigny, before participating in a major defensive operation on Montdidier-Noyon Front.
Robinson would be wounded in his next encounter when he was struck by artillery debris during the Aisne-Marne offensive, when French and American troops pushed German troops across the Aisne and Vesle Rivers, ultimately eliminating their threat to Paris, according to https://history.army.mil/.
Robinson’s final combat encounter came at the Meuse-Ar-
gonne Forest, where he fought in the Meuse–Argonne offensive.
The offensive was the largest and deadliest in United States military history, consisting of 1.2 million American soldiers, sailors and marines, along with 800,000 French and 850 Siamese personnel, according to the United States National Archives. The conflict resulted in more than 120,000 American casualties.
There, Robinson would suffer a second, more severe wound when he was once again struck by artillery debris, this time in his leg, which resulted in permanent nerve damage. But the Allied forces were victorious, and their triumph would lead to Armistice Day and the resolution of World War 1.
Robinson was cited for gallantry for his time in the Argonne, Thomas said. He returned home in 1919 and reenlisted for another year before being honorably discharged as a Sergeant on December 6, 1920.
Life after the war
In 1922, Robinson moved to Atlanta to work as a streetcar conductor before finding a new job as a railroad detective in Birmingham, Alabama in 1924. He would go on to marry Alton Guinn Stanley in 1925.
Robinson eventually shifted to the insurance industry, which would take him and his wife to Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta, before finally settling in Newnan 1938. The couple ended up having seven children together.
Robinson remained in the insurance industry as an agent for Life Insurance Company of Georgia. He founded the Newnan Collection Agency at 10 Greenville Street in 1961 and operated it until his death on January 6, 1970.
Thomas and his children fondly remember Robinson as a loving, caring father who would do anything for his family and his country, as shown by his unwavering desire to serve at such a young age.
Despite witnessing wide-scale devastation at such a young age, his character, kindness and dedication to his family never faltered, Thomas said.
“He was always there for us, and never had a bad thing to say,” Thomas said. “He always brought home animals. We had cats, birds, alligators, anything he could find.”
“He was very sweet and fun to be around,” Thomas concluded. “If anybody was in a wreck, he wouldn’t say, ‘Oh, you messed up the car.’ He would want to know if you were all right. That’s just the type of person he was.”
Photos courtesy Mary John Thomas Robinson’s sergeant stripes from his World War 1 uniform.
The Mission
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity is the fund raising, funding and support organization for the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The Foundation was created at the request of the U. S. Marine Corps and provides support in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, who directs the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program.
The mission of the Fayette/Coweta Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in our community.
Marine Corps League Detachment 1325 accepted responsibility for the collection and distribution of toys for the U. S. Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots program in 2010. Since taking on this task and with the help of Fayette and Coweta county residents, we have provided toys for over 20,000 local children. The Marine Corps League Detachment's Toys for Tots program provides toys to organizations who provide toys to needy children in Coweta, Fayette, and Meriwether Counties.
Photos courtesy Jeff White, Southside Toys for Tots
13 Years of Georgia Military Women
Thirteen years ago, a spark—
A simple hope, a voice in the dark. No blueprint, just a need to be seen, For women who’d worn Army green... Or Navy blue, or Air Force wings, Marine Corps pride, or Coast Guard things. From boot camp boots to retired grace, From those who’ve soared to those still finding place— We are stories whispered, not always loud, Quiet strength beneath the crowd. No dues, no stage, no fancy show, Just sisters standing, letting others know: You are not alone. You never were.
To every silent helper, every brave heart— Thank you for being the best part Of this sisterhood we built with care. Thirteen years—and still we're there. #GMW13 #GeorgiaMilitaryWomen #SisterhoodInService
Photos courtesy Verna Funk
Coweta Veterans Club
HELPING VETERANS
A place for veterans to come and be around people who have shared similar military experiences. A hand to help them through the darkness.
PROMOTING PATRIOTISM
A pocket of patriotism that is unapologetically American. Promoting citizenship and education.
SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY
Veterans working with other organizations to make Newnan and Coweta County a better place to live.
www.cowetavets.org 130 Veterans Club Rd Newnan GA 30263
770-251-6949
email: info@cowetavets.org
As a non-profi t 501(c)(19) war-time veterans organization, donations to the Coweta Veterans Club are tax-exempt, and the CVC complies with all 501(c)(19) rules and regulations.
COWETA VETERANS CLUB
Thank you for your service!
