The annual Hominy Alumni gathering was fantastic. Our Post provided the POW/MIA Remembrance setting/table displayed with our rich military history of service in the windows of the Main Street Tag Agency. At the request of our City Manager the Hut crew hustled to get flags out on Main Street as well. Going forward flag schedules will be posted by our Legion Adjutant John Hamilton.

Do you know where Blanchard Oklahoma is? I have been there but was unaware that they had a Medal of Honor recipient who played a major role in the Heartbreak Ridge episode in the Korean War. Yes, it really was more than a Clint Eastwood movie. It was awarded posthumously. Today in history Tony Burris, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division a member of Company L, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty. On 8 October, when his company encountered intense fire from an entrenched hostile force, Sergeant First Class (Sfc.) Burris charged forward alone, throwing grenades into the position and destroying approximately 15 of the enemy. On the following day (9 Oct), spearheading a renewed assault on enemy positions on the next ridge, he was wounded by machine gun fire but continued the assault, reaching the crest of the ridge ahead of his unit and sustaining a second wound. Calling for a 57mm recoilless rifle team, he deliberately exposed himself to draw hostile fire and reveal the enemy position.

The enemy machine gun emplacement was destroyed. The company then moved forward and prepared to assault other positions on the ridge line. Sfc. Burris, refusing evacuation and submitting only to emergency treatment, joined the unit in its renewed attack but fire from hostile emplacement halted the advance. Sfc. Burris rose to his feet, charged forward and destroyed the first emplacement with its heavy machine gun and crew of six men. Moving out to the next emplacement, and throwing his last grenade which destroyed this position, he fell mortally wounded by enemy fire. Inspired by his gallantry, his comrades renewed a spirited assault which overran enemy positions and secured Hill 605, a strategic position in the battle for “Heartbreak Ridge,” Sfc. Burris’ indomitable fighting spirit, outstanding heroism, and gallant self -sacrifice reflect the highest glory upon himself, the infantry and the U.S. Army.

Don’t forget our regular meetings continue the first and third Thursdays of the month. October 17th will be the next one at 7:00 PM. The first Thursday 6:00 PM dinner will be prepared by our new Chef Jim Beckett. Monday morning Koffee Klatch 8:00 AM meetings in October are still scheduled for biscuits and gravy and always a cup of Joe (coffee to the civilians) but now a new change. Giving Chef Sebert a well deserve leave from culinary responsibilities other members will be opening things up every Monday morning. The second Monday of the month will be covered by our newest member Jimmy Himes.

The third Monday of the month Dennis Kidder will be picking up donuts for breakfast Just watch the weather, it is the only factor that my change. If you drive by and no one is there head downtown where there is a great breakfast place. If you are a veteran come on by. If you have a good story it may end up in print. Also keep up with us at website “americanlegion142.org”.