Veterans Day is a day set aside to honor the living veterans who served in branches of the United States military during combat.
On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, the Wiley Post #74 of the American Legion will host a ceremony at 3:30 p.m. at Eagle Park on Turner’s Pond. Two awards will be permanently mounted on the newly installed Wall of Honor; the presentation of the plaques is to honor the service of Corporal Bill Ichter and First Lt. George Turner.
Ichter is a well-known World War II veteran and has received the highest honor bestowed by the nation of France – the National Order of the Legion of Honor, first bestowed July 15, 1804. He is a retired missionary and a member of First Baptist Church in Minden. He lives in Minden with his wife, Geri.
Turner was awarded a Bronze Star from the U.S. Army on June 12, 1944, after he aided in moving forward his infantry unit with little opposition. He has received other accolades including an Oak Leaf Cluster and a commission as 2nd lieutenant. He is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Killen Turner and has two brothers, John Killen Turner Jr., and Harold Monzingo.
Turner is a graduate of Minden High School.
Dr. Richard Campbell, First Lt., was a U.S. Army ranger in Vietnam and will serve as narrator.
The National Anthem will be led by Bruce Lee and has requested that all present accompany him in singing.
Invocation will be conducted by MSGT Robert Whitaker, pastor of Victory Praise and Worship Center. The changing of the colors will be done by the Minden Junior ROTC under the command of Lt. Col. Robert Peden.
Wiley Post #74 of the American Legion, Post 2885 of the VFW, along with members of the Louisiana Army National Guard, stationed at Camp Minden, will host the event.
Final Tapps will be presented by Charles Waters with Echo Tapps by Mike Holloman.
All veterans and the general public are encouraged to attend.