The program began with the Perry County Central JROTC’s presentation of colors followed by the singing of the National Anthem by Bill Morton, a veteran of World War II and Korea. Don Haley, Commander of VFW Post #7387, hosted the event.
The morning’s speakers included Hazard Mayor Bill Gorman, Circuit Judge Bill Engle, Hazard Police Chief Ronnie Bryant and former Leslie County Judge Executive and veteran George Wooton, all of whom paid respect to those men and women who have and who are currently serving in the armed forces.
George Wooton served in World War II as a United States Army medic before coming back to Leslie County where he would go on to serve in public office. At the age of 93 still maintains a very active lifestyle, noted that his family has a long record in serving the country dating back to the Civil War. Wooton said observing Memorial Day is important because it allows people a chance to pay homage to those men and women who have bravely served in the military.
“It reminds you of what has happened in the past and what it meant to the whole world by honoring the service people that lost their lives during the different wars,” he said. “Memorial Day is a sacred day and a day to remember the past, the people who have given their lives to save the country and to save our way of life,” he continued, adding that the role America’s service men and women played in the country’s history was to preserve America and its ideals. “If Hitler would have taken over and won, we wouldn’t be standing here like we are now.”
Bill Morton flew American bombers in the Army Air Corps during World War II, and was later recalled to serve during the Korean War as an aircraft controller with the United States Air Force. Morton would return home to Perry County to eventually own and operate Home Lumber Company, the family business, before being elected as Hazard’s mayor in the 1970s.
Morton noted that the main meaning behind Memorial Day is to recognize and honor those who were killed in action serving their country, and observing Memorial Day is an important part of life in America because it serves as a way to remind those who have not served in the military of those sacrifices.
“It’s so that people who have not been involved in a war can really understand what sacrifice that these kids made,” he said.
Morton also added that during World War II eastern Kentucky played its part, and in Breathitt County the Army didn’t have to draft anyone as every one who joined did so voluntarily, just as he did. He noted that Perry County was much the same.
“All through southeast Kentucky there were a lot of volunteers,” he said.
Monday’s Memorial Day service was capped off with a 21-gun salute by the Perry Central JROTC before the placing of the wreath.
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