Columbia, Pineville, Wilkes-Barre honor fallen veterans in memorial ceremonies

Columbia, Tennessee, commemorated the 80th anniversary of Medal of Honor recipient John Harlan Willis with a wreath-laying ceremony at the John Harlan Willis Bridge Memorial, honoring his bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Willis, a native of Columbia, made the ultimate sacrifice on February 28, 1945, while aiding fellow Marines despite being wounded. In Pineville, Louisiana, a memorial was held for Sergeant Robert Clyde Allen, a Vietnam veteran who died 58 years ago, drawing family and community members together to honor his legacy. Additionally, a ceremony in Wilkes-Barre recognized the contributions of United States Colored Troops during the Civil War, emphasizing their choice to serve despite facing great risks. These events reflect a broader commitment to remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by veterans across different conflicts. Each ceremony underscores the importance of community engagement in preserving the stories and memories of these individuals.