Highest Veteran Count in Mississippi Declines

GULFPORT -- The highest number of veterans in Mississippi live in Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties, but the total had fallen since 2000, according to the lastest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The bureau said the decline is partly due to Hurricane Katrina, which in general has reduced the population of the three coastal counties since the storm five years ago.

Full Story:
Coast Has Most Vets, But Numbers Show Decline
The Sun Herald/Dec. 29, 2010
Story by Michael Newsom

Flying Jennies Train for Deployment to Afghanistan in January

The "Flying Jennies"



TSgt Dana Kelley of Ocean Springs prepares a parachute for an airdrop off an 815th Airlift Squardron Super Hercules airplane during a training mission Tuesday at Keesler Air Force Base. (Photo by Harlan Kirgan/The Mississippi Press)

A C-130J-30 at KAFB

Holiday Mail to Heroes Sent to national Red Cross in D.C.

Resurrection High School students dress as elves to collect signed greeting cards to send to military personnel through Holiday Mail for Heroes, a program by the American Red Cross, during Downtown for the Holidays on Dec. 3 in Delmas Plaza in Pascagoula.

PASCAGOULA -- Holley Cunningham said that 8,040 greeting cards were collected during November and the weekend of Dec. 3-4 for the Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign sponsored by the American Red Cross.

This year is the first time residents in Jackson County have participated in the national campaign, which provides cards for those who want to wish military personnel a happy holiday, and also allows residents to purchase individual cards for their own personal Christmas message.

Cunningham, a 17-year-old senior at Resurrection High, mailed the cards Dec. 7 to Washington, D.C. "I was told they should arrive (Dec. 10)," she said.

Resurrection High School Senior Gathers Christmas Cards for Soldiers
November 25, 2010 @ www.gulflive.com/themississippipress

Holiday Mail for Heroes Hailed at Downtown Fest

PASCAGOULA -- Holley Cunningham has collected 8,040 cards during the local Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign, sponsored nationally by the American Red Cross.

Cunningham, 17, collected the cards during November and this past weekend, beginning with Downtown for the Holidays event on Friday night and on Saturday at sign-up stations at Jerry Lee's Grocery on Ingalls Avenue and at Singing River Mall in Gautier.

More information may be obtained at www.redcross.org.

Volunteers Work to Bring Honor Flight to Mississippi Veterans

About 500 veterans of World War II living in South Mississippi would be eligible to participate in the Honor Flight program that flies the former military members to the Washington, D.C., for a daylong trip. Residents are working to bring the program to local veterans.

Booth Hopes High for Honor Flight

M.L. McCormick Jr. listens to Dr. Barry Booth speak about Honor Flight South Alabama and its program to fly World War II veterans to Washington, D.C. for a one-day visit. Booth spoke to about 100 residents attending a meeting of Jackson County United Methodist Men at Dantzler United Methodist Church in Moss Point on Thursday, Nov. 18. (Harlan Kirgan/Mississippi Press).

Read the full story:

Mississippians challenged to launch Honor Flight

The Jackson County Veterans Memorial is nearly complete. Moss Point city officials expect to allow the public in public during a grand opening ceremony in late December after another construction project near city hall is completed.

Construction Postpones Jackson County Veterans Parade, Program

JACKSON COUNTY -- Chamber CEO Carla Todd said celebrations for Veterans Day were canceled this year because of ongoing construction at the memorial site in Moss Point. Mayor Aneice Liddell expects the veterans memorial to open by late December when work on other downtown improvements are scheduled to be completed. A grand opening is being planned.

Breakfast for Veterans at Gautier High

GAUTIER -- It was all about Anthony McDaniel.

The Veterans Breakfast held Monday, Nov. 08, at Gautier High School put the school's 2006 graduate at the center of attention. This year marked the 11th time for the event that honors local veterans of all wars for their service to the U.S.

McDaniel, a Marine, lost both legs and left hand during a mine explosion in August this year while serving in Afghanistan.

Veterans Tower Planned for Gautier

A Veterans Tribute Tower is in the works for Gautier. Plans are to build the tribute in front of Gautier City Hall on U.S. 90. (Photo by Verdin Co.)

Officer Lee's Death Reaches 8th Year Oct. 17

MOSS POINT -- Sunday, Oct. 17, will mark the anniversary of the death of Police Officer Larry DeWayne Lee, who was 42 years old when he died that Thursday night in 2002.

Officer Lee, who had served 14 years in law enforcement, was killed when his patrol vehicle was hit head-on by a suspect driving a Chevy Blazer as he was being pursued near the high-rise bridge on Mississippi 63.

Officer Lee was thrown 200 feet and died at the scene, according to news reports at the time.

Lee had served with the Moss Point Police Department six years and eight years with the Jackson County Sheriff's Department.

Guardsmen Visit Courthouse Coffee

Lt. Scott White and Lt. Cmdr. Mike Pierno with the U.S. Coast Guard visit Courthouse Coffee in Downtown Pascagoula on Oct. 12.

Assistant Teacher Dies During Wreck in Florida

MOSS POINT -- Assistant teacher Marva Johnson died Friday, Oct. 8, following a vehicle wreck near Jacksonville, Fla.

Johnson, an assistant teacher at Singing River Elementary School in Gautier, was the wife of Deputy Police Chief Bobby Johnson, who traveled to Florida after learning about the morning accident. According to a city official, Marva Johnson had been visiting swith her daughter, Bobbye Jo, since Wednesday.

Details of the wreck were unavailable. Funeral plans are pending upon return of family members to Moss Point. Mayor Aneice Liddell said Friday that the Johnsons have other family members in Jacksonville.

Corporal Laid to Rest 66 Years After His Death

SAPETA, Miss. -- It took 66 years, but Cpl. Judge Clayton Hellums finally made it back home.

Hellums, 28, was killed Oct. 9, 1944, when a German rocket struck his M10 tank in Lorraine, France, during World War II.

He was among three of five soldiers who died from the attack, though military officials had listed him missing in action. His remains were found four years ago.

Hellums was buried Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010, at the Shady Grove Cemetery outside Bruce, Miss., with state National Guard members carrying his casket to its resting place.


(Information gathered from the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal and some AP reports.)

Breaking News: Wife of Deputy Chief Dies

MOSS POINT – City officials learned late this morning that the wife of Deputy Chief Bobby Johnson died following a vehicle wreck in Florida.

Mrs. Johnson, whose first name was unavailable for this report, was in Jacksonville on Friday visiting with her daughter, who also was involved in the vehicle accident but was not hurt, according to Mayor Aneice Liddell. She said the deputy chief wife’s had been in Florida since Wednesday.

Apparently, Mrs. Johnson was reported to have been doing well after the wreck but died later at an area hospital.

Further details about the cause of her death and the accident itself were not known for this report.

Mayor Aneice Liddell said Deputy Chief Johnson was on his way to Jacksonville when he learned that his wife had passed away. She said Johnson and his daughter have other family members who live in Jacksonville.

Johnson's wife was always supportive of her husband, and attended any and every function that involved the deputy chief, the mayor said. "He and his wife did everything together. They were very close."

Liddell said another officer from the Moss Point Police Department probably would travel to Jacksonville to help Johnson make the return trip to the city, but exact plans depend on continuing circumstances surrounding his spouse's death.

"We are waiting to see what his needs are," she said around midday Friday.

Law Enforcement Academy Graduates Katrina Class

BILOXI -- The first law enforcement class to graduate here since Hurricane Katrina marched today at the Harrison County Law Enforcement Training Academy, according to media reports.

Next class begins Jan. 03

It has been five years since the academy was in South Mississippi, returning this summer after moving from Long Beach when the storm damaged the campus of University of South Mississippi at Gulf Park. Until June, the academy was at Camp Shelby outside Hattiesburg.

Eleven cadets graduated in today's ceremony, according to news from www.wlox.com

Fireman Fights Fire at His Own Home, Saves Photos

"It's a weird feeling. ... I never thought I'd see the day I'd have to respond to a fire at my own house." -- Firefighter Woodrow McCarthy

MOSS POINT -- Woodrow McCarthy had to shake the shock and temporary paralysis from his mind and body when the emergency call came from the police dispatcher on Sunday afternoon.

As part of normal procedure to make sure firefighters have heard the correct address, they asked the dispatcher to again give the location of the house fire that was burning at 4507 Third Street.

He'd heard right the first time: His house was on fire.

"It was shock. Then you have that kind of mini-paralysis," he said about midday Monday.

The Moss Point homeowner was among about city personnel who rushed to the scene to put out the blaze in temperatures also ablaze in an ongoing heatwave. Three firefighters suffered heat exhaustion and were taken to the county hospital. They were treated and released.

Three Firefighters Overcome by Heat Working House Fire

www.gulflive.com/themississippipress on Monday, July 09, 2010

"Three got heat exhaustion, but everybody pulled together and we did what we do. Nobody gave up on it," said the firefighter.

"It's a weird feeling. As many house fires as we respond to I never thought I'd have to respond to my own house," he said. "It's like that old saying, you have to laugh to keep from crying."

For just a moment, tears fell from his eyes and those of his wife's, Juanita, on Monday as they and other relatives went through burned furniture, smoke-damaged clothing, and photographs, even more precious now. Son Woodrow Jr. hugged his parents.

Fire inspector Robert Lavinghouse has said the house was a totally destroyed by fire and smoke. He estimated the older house sustained between $80,000 and $100,000 in damage.

"It appears to be an electrical short in the bedroom," said Lavinghouse.

McCarthy said he called his wife after the dispatcher reiterated the Third Street location. He'd wanted to make sure his family was okay. She'd made the 911 call when she and the children returned home from church about 2 p.m. to find the house on fire.

"When we pulled up from church they went in," said Juanita McCarthy. "As I was coming up on the porch they ran and met me saying the room was on fire. It was my daughter's room."

Chandorria McCarthy is 15; brother Kedarrius is 13 and Woodrow Jr. is 12.

Her emotions took over for a while. "I was just hysterical. I had to pull myself together because my children were hysterical."

After calling 911 she got a call from her husband.

"I said, 'Baby our house is on fire. Baby, it's burning, burning!' He said, 'I'm on my way, I'm on my way.' He said when he came he was stunned."

Charred Home in Moss Point Belonged to A Fireman

www.wlox.com on Sunday, August 08, 2010

It took about eight hours to completely douse the fire, which was contained between 8 and 9 p.m., they said.

A unit from the Moss Point Fire Department, along with Lavinghouse and fire Chief Mike Dale returned to the scene Monday morning to check the attic and to determine the cause of the fire.

The McCarthy's and their younger son spent Monday with relatives outside at the house, finding shade under trees in the yard. Tears and relief were mixed as they were grateful to find many family photographs still intact.

"That to me was special. My twin was killed in a wreck years ago," said Juanita McCarthy. I was worried about the pictures I had of her that I had saved over the years."

She also found many mementos of school achievements earned by the children. She said the loss of furniture, clothes and other household items could be replaced.

"Thank God for my husband and children," the mother said.

Guardsman a Robbery Suspect, Suicide Victim

A young man suspected in a fast-food robbery in Slidell, La., and found dead after an vehicle wreck in Hancock County has been identified as a 24-year-old National guardsman, according to media reports.

I-10 Suicide Identified As National Guard member

www.wlox.com

Authorities named John Paul Loupe of LaPlace, La., as the person found following a one-vehicle wreck near Diamondhead. A pathologist has ruled the death a suicide after the guardsman was discovered with a gunshot wound to the head.

Lady at the Helm of George County Sheriff Department

LUCEDALE -- Debbie Welford pledged to do her best in honor of her husband, Sheriff Garry Welford.

She took the helm of the George County Sheriff's Department today, sworn by Judge Dale Harkey.

The wife of the two-term sheriff replaced her husband, who was struck and killed July 21, authorities have said, by Brandy Williams driving a pickup truck on Bexley Road.

Reportedly the girlfriend of criminal suspect Christopher Baxter, officials said she was trying to avoid spike strips that Welford was attempting to place on the roadway to stop their fleeing truck during a law enforcement pursuit.

Welford was buried a week ago today at the cemetery of Shady Grove Baptist Church.

Debbie Welford to lead Sheriff's Department

LUCEDALE -- Until a November special election is held to select a new sheriff, the widow of Garry Welford will serve in his position at the George County Sheriff's Department, according to the Mississippi Press.

Debbie Welford will replace her husband, a two-term sheriff in George County who was killed July 21 on Bexley Road as he worked to stop a fleeing suspect and his girlfriend during a law enforcement pursuit.

July Deadliest Month in Afghanistan

The death of six more American soldiers killed this week makes July 2010 the deadliest month of the 9-year-war in Afghanistan, according to AOL News on July 30.

The information, provided by the Associated Press, said in part:

"The deaths raise the July tally of U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan to 66, making this month the deadliest of the war since U.S. warplanes began bombing Afghanistan a month after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. For NATO as a whole, 86 foreign service members have been killed this month. June was the deadliest-ever month for the entire NATO force, with 104 deaths, including 60 Americans."

Let us Salute and Honor the fallen members of our military services, and pray for and help their families.

Flags on the National Mall

George County Sheriff's Personnel Honor Boss, Carry On

LUCEDALE -- For several hours this morning, Stone County law enforcement took over duties for George County personnel who led the procession and took center stage to lay to rest their slain leader.

George County Sheriff Killed in Line of Duty Laid to Rest

www.gulflive.com/themississippipress by reporter Cherie Ward

"It's a sad day," said Vicki Micelle, a receptionist at the George County Correctional Facility. "It's a very great loss."

Not all of the 42-member personnel at the jail attended funeral services for Sheriff Garry Welford. A skeletal crew remained on duty during a jail lock-down for services Monday morning.

Deputies and sheriff's department officials were among some 500 officers, according to news reports, from across the Gulf Coast who paid their respects to the sheriff and his family.

Approximately 1,500 people attended the services at Shady Grove Baptist Church, where some attendants braved sweltering 98 degree heat while standing outside to hear services for the two-term sheriff. Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant was reported to be among the crowd.

Five days after Welford was run over and killed July 21, allegedly by the girlfriend of a fleeing criminal suspect, he was laid to rest at the church cemetery just off Mississippi 26.

Sheriff Garry Welford 'Died Courageously'

www.sunherald.com by reporter Margaret Baker

"He was a very great man," said Micelle. "I've known him for several, several years ... 20 something years."

Reporter Cherie Ward said George County deputies and commanders led the procession as it traveled from the George County Courthouse to Shady Grove Baptist Church, where Welford attended.

Christopher Lee Baxter, 24, and Brandy Williams, 18, have been charged with capital murder. Williams was driving the truck that hit Welford, according to law officials. Apparently, she was trying to avoid spike sticks placed on Bexley Road by Welford to stop the vehicle.

George County Pays Tribute to Sheriff Garry Welford

www.wlox.com by reporter Patrice Clark

By early Monday afternoon, George County deputies had returned from the services for the two-term sheriff, who is survived by his wife, Debbie, three children, and seven grandchildren.

Facility employees carried on despite their heavy hearts, the receptionist said. Micelle said the day was hectic number of residents and visitors local and statewide present to remember and honor Welford.

"Everybody just got back," she said. "Other than being hot and sweaty, they are fixing to carry on with the day. They already have released the Stone County officers."

Read obituary and post your own comments

www.legacy.com

Funeral Set for George County Sheriff Garry Welford

LUCEDALE -- Funeral services will be held Monday, July 26, for George County Sheriff Garry Welford who was killed July 21 on Bexley Road.

The sheriff was attempting to bring an end to law enforcement pursuit of Christopher Lee Baxter, 24, and Brandy Nicole Williams, 19. They have been charged with capital murder and being held without bond at an undisclosed correctional facility in the state.

Update:

Sheriff Garry Welford "Died Courageously"
www.sunherald.com Tuesday, July 27, 2010

First Lady Christens Stratton (WMSL 752)

First Lady Michelle Obama breaks a bottle of sparkling wine across the bow of the Coast Guard's newest national security cutter, officially christening the ship Stratton (WMSL 752). More than 3,000 guests attended the ceremony at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding facilities in Pascagoula, Miss. Mrs. Obama was supported by (l-r) Mike Petters, president, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Bruce Baffer, prospective commanding officer, Stratton (WMSL 752) and Adm. Robert Papp Jr., commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.

(Globe Wire)

PASCAGOULA -- First Lady Michelle Obama christened the Northrop Grumman-built (NYSE:NOC) U.S. National Security Cutter Stratton(WMSL 752) in front of 3,000 guests today calling the ship "truly magnificent." Stratton is the third of eight planned National Security Cutters being built at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Pascagoula for the U.S. Coast Guard. With its 418-foot length and 4,700 ton full load displacement and state-of-the-art command and control systems, the NSC is the largest and most technologically advanced of the new multi-mission cutters. "Here in Pascagoula, you've been building ships for centuries," said Mrs. Obama. "It's in your blood—a proud tradition passed from generation to generation. Your hands have given us some of the greatest ships in the United States Navy and Coast Guard. So whether you're a welder or a fitter or a burner—whatever your craft—today is also a tribute to you and your families, and America thanks you." Stratton is named in honor of Captain Dorothy C. Stratton (1899-2006), the U.S. Coast Guard's first female commissioned officer and director of the SPARS ("Semper Paratus - Always Ready"), the U.S. Coast Guard Women's Reserve during World War II. SPARS mainly replaced men in shore stations during most of the war; however as the war progressed SPARS were placed in charge of greater areas of previously male-only control—including as parachute riggers, aviation machinists' mates and air control tower operators. Several former SPARS attended the ceremony. In his ceremony remarks, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding president Mike Petters recognized all of the shipbuilders who are building Stratton and added, "Captain Stratton was truly a trailblazer – and I know that her passion and energy will be embodied in this great ship named for her, built by the best shipbuilders in the world." U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Bruce Baffer is the ship's prospective commanding officer and will lead a crew of 120 U.S. Coast Guard sailors. "Christening of Stratton is an important step in advancing our Coast Guard mission," said Admiral Robert Papp, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. The Legend-class National Security Cutter (NSC) is capable of meeting all maritime security mission needs. Powered by a twin propeller combined diesel and gas turbine power propulsion plant, the NSC is designed to travel at 28 knots maximum speed. The cutter includes an aft launch and recovery area for two rigid hull inflatable boats, and a flight deck to accommodate a range of manned and unmanned rotary wing aircrafts. It is the largest and most technologically advanced class of cutter in the U.S. Coast Guard, with robust capabilities for maritime homeland security, law enforcement, marine safety, environmental protection and national defense missions. This class of cutters plays an important role enhancing the Coast Guard's operational readiness, capacity, and effectiveness at a time when the demand for their services has never been greater. "Cutter Stratton...embodies our drive to constantly innovate and evolve our maritime capabilities and leverage technology to our greatest advantage. It also reflects our desire to create a more modern, agile and forward-leaning Coast Guard capable of handling a new era of national security threats," said Janet Napolitano, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding is responsible for the construction and testing of the NSC's hull, mechanical, and electrical systems, while Lockheed Martin is building and integrating the command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities onboard the cutters. Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.

Transition Program Eases Soldiers into Civilian Life

BILOXI -- Staff Sergeant Frankie Beamon talks about coming home and returning to the everyday things that make life worth living -- family, friends, walking in the neighborhood without the constant threat of death.

See his story at www.wlox.com

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program is used by the 155th Infantry Battalion. Major Joe Hardaman is the state director.

Photos Sunday’s public fireworks displays are at 8:30 p.m. on Ocean Springs front beach, 8:45 p.m. near the Gulfport Small Craft Harbor and 9 p.m. near the Biloxi Small Craft Harbor. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kemberly Groue) Download HiRes A blast isn't always a good thing Firework safety tips Posted 6/30/2010 81st Training Wing Safety Office and Public Affairs 6/30/2010 - KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- *NOTE: Please remain vigilant of current oil spill updates as they may affect beach availability for 4th of July firework demonstrations off highway 90. Go tohttp://biloxi.ms.us/Oil_Spill/index.html for further information.* Dry weather in south Mississippi makes fireworks a dangerous proposition for Independence Day. James Palmer, Keesler's fire prevention chief, stressed that fireworks are strictly prohibited on base and in surrounding cities, but fireworks continue to be sold in Harrison and Jackson counties outside city limits. "Some people insist on buying and using them, regardless of the dangers," Mr. Palmer said. A June 2010 report from the National Fire Prevention Association noted that in 2008, the most recent year for which statistics are available, about 7,000 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency rooms. About 53 percent involve injuries to the extremities and 37 percent to the head. About 40 percent of the injuries involved young people under the age of 15. Sparklers, often considered "safe" for young children, caused 22 percent of the injuries, and small firecrackers accounted for 18 percent. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is at an outdoor public display put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet from the launch area. For people who opt to light their own fireworks, here are some safety reminders: Fireworks are not toys. They burn at about the same temperature as a household match. Buy fireworks from reliable merchants. Never attempt to make your own homemade fireworks. Mixing chemical powders can result in an untimely explosion that can cause death or injuries. Know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are federally-banned explosives that can cause serious injury or even death. If you know of anyone selling such devices, contact your local police department. Different fireworks mean different hazards, so read the instructions on each one and follow them carefully. Avoid anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name and instructions for proper use. Light the tip of each firework at arm's length, using a fireworks lighter or fuse wick. Move back immediately. Light one firework or sparkler at a time. Rockets should be launched from a rocket launcher, not from glass or metal containers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure that anyone holding one wears gloves and puts each spent one into a bucket of water as soon as it's gone out. Never give fireworks to small children. Close adult supervision of all fireworks activities is necessary. Don't throw fireworks onto a bonfire. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Don't carry fireworks in your pocket. Always ignite fireworks outdoors. Never throw fireworks at another person. If a firework doesn't go off, it could still be live and could go off unexpectedly. Douse the "dud" with water, then bury it. Pets hate bangs and flashes and get frightened around fireworks, so keep pets indoors and close curtains to make things calmer. Before lighting any fireworks, make sure enough room is available in a safe place. Have a full bucket of water handy for any emergency, and for disposing of used sparklers. Loose clothing or scarves can catch on fire very easily. If clothing catches fire, stop, drop to the ground and roll over to put out the flames. Drinking alcohol adds to the danger when there are fireworks and bonfires around. Consider not having any alcoholic drinks available until after all fireworks have been set off. For more information, call the safety office, 377-2910, or fire prevention office, 377-8441.

General McCrystal Likley to Lose Job

Gen. Stanley McChrystal is likely to lose his job today after he and other military personnel made disparaging comments about President Barack Obama and some of the president's top aides during an interview with Rolling Stone magazine.

McChrystal is expected to meet with President Obama before turning his resignation. On Tuesday, Obama said the general and team members of McChrystal used "poor judgment" in their statements to the magazine reporter.

According to AP reporters Anne Gearan and Jennifer Loven, "McChrystal did not criticize Obama directly but called the period last fall when Obama was deciding whether to approve more troops "painful' and the president was handing him an 'unsellable' position.
"McChrystal also said he was 'betrayed' by Ambassador Karl Eikenberry, the man the White House chose to be his diplomatic partner in Afghanistan."

Flag Retirement Ceremony

D'IBERVILLE -- A flag retirement ceremony has been planned for June 14.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6731 will conduct the ceremony at 1 p.m. at 4321 W. Gay Road.

109 Year Old Talks About WWI Memorial

In today's Parade magazine, 109-year-old Frank Buckles talks about the need to create a National World War I Memorial on the Mall in Washington, D.C.

Buckles, who lied about his age to enter the U.S. Army in 1917, is the last living American veteran of WWI, known as Doughboys. He was 16 years old when he went to war in France.

"I know that I am a representative of all those who have gone before me. Those veterans, especially those who made the supreme sacrifice, should be remembered," said Buckles in the May 30, 2010, edition of Parade.

Actually, according to the magazine, there already is a memorial for fallen soldiers of WWI from the District of Columbia as well as the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City, Mo., site of the National WWI Museum.

Read Richard Rubin's article about Frank Buckles and his efforts for a national WWI memorial.

Frank Woodruff Buckles (born February 1, 1901) is, at age 109, the last living American veteran of World War I and the oldest verified military veteran in the world.^[1] He currently lives at Gap View Farm, near Charles Town, West Virginia and is the Honorary Chairman of the World War I Memorial Foundation. During World War II, Buckles was taken prisoner by the Japanese as a civilian.

Giving Away Buddy Poppies

PASCAGOULA -- Today, outside of Wayne Lee's there was a group of young girls and their sponsor giving away Buddy Poppies.

Although the woman who was passing out the souvenirs did not ask for a donation, residents dropped in a dollar for the effort and the memorial it represents to veterans across South Mississippi and the country.

It hit me that $1 bills were about all there were in the donation box. They seemed inadequate. It just didn't seem enough for these times. You can hardly buy a brand-name soda with a dollar, especially if you add tax. And our soldiers certainly deserve all the help they can get for their service and lives.

Anyway, the woman and children gladly shoved the souvenirs into people's hands, as if having the poppies was better than any money that could be gained from their endeavor. Their sign said something about remembering vets.

This is the weekend for remembering. Officially, Memorial Day will be May 31, always the last Monday in May. Numerous programs and services will be held today and the next three days, which makes for a four-day weekend.

Enjoy.

Say hi to a soldier -- former, present, future.

Pascagoula Offers Memorial Day Fun

By JENNIFER FLANAGAN

Public Relations Coordinator

PASCAGOULA -- Get in the mood for summer at Pascagoula’s new beach and Beach Park over this Memorial Day weekend. Following tradition, Pascagoula’s “Sounds by the Sea” outdoor concert will be held at Beach Park at 6 p.m. Sunday, May 30. In preparation for this event the park will not open until 2 p.m. that Sunday allowing for the set-up of the concert stage and other activities.

For added convenience the new concession facility at the park will be open during the “Sounds by the Sea” concert. D’Vine Soul Food will be serving everything from hot dogs to pork and rib lunches from the new facility located on the west end of the park from noon to 9 p.m. Regular concession hours will be Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

In order to insure a safe and fun experience within Beach Park visitors are asked to follow these rules and regulations: no pets allowed, no alcoholic beverage or glass containers, no profanity or disruptive behavior, and please put trash in receptacles.

City officials have not forgotten about our furry friends this Memorial Day weekend. Owners and their dogs can play on the beach between Hague and Pascagoula streets. However, dogs must be kept under control at all times and owners must pick-up after their animals.

For additional fun, the beach pier will remain open from 7 a.m. until dusk daily.

For those interested in a beach bonfire you must obtain a fire permit through the Pascagoula Fire Department and be prepared to display the permit throughout the weekend. Contact Pascagoula’s Central Fire Station at 228-762-1901 for more information.

Parking for the beach is located at The Point on the west end of Beach Boulevard or at Beach Park. No parking is allowed along either side of Beach Boulevard. Violators will be towed at the expense of the vehicle owner.

Memorial Day weekend always brings music, fun and fireworks to Pascagoula. To insure a fun and safe experience all visitors and residents are encouraged to following the rules and regulation set forth for the City’s public spaces.

Park ordinance for the City of Pascagoula reads:

1. No person shall cut, break, trample, injure or take any plants, flowers, shrubbery, trees or vegetation or remove any benches, seats or other appurtenances of such parks or enclosures.

2. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle upon a publicly owned beach except as necessary in its maintenance and care by a person authorized to do so.

3. It shall be unlawful to sell, drink or possess any alcoholic beverage on a municipal park, playground, ballfield, recreational area, or any public beach including those leased by private parties.

4. Glass beverage containers are banned from municipal parks, playgrounds, ballfields, or other recreation areas and public beaches.

5. It shall be unlawful for any dog to be in or upon any public park, beach or other public recreational areas (except the north portion of IG Levy Memorial Park & on the beach betweenHague Street and Pascagoula Street.)

Dog ordinance for the City of Pascagoula reads:

(a) It shall be unlawful for any owner of any animal, whether under control or not, to allow it to be in or upon any public park, beach, or other public recreational area within the City, except as otherwise provided in this section.

(b) Dogs may be allowed on the north portion of I.G. Levy Park under the following conditions:

(1) A dog shall be under the immediate control of a responsible person.

(2) Any feces produced by a dog while on such park shall be immediately collected and removed in a sanitary manner by the person having it under control.

(3) No dog shall be permitted upon the pavilion located on the park.

(4) No dog shall attack any other dog or human.

(5) No dog involved in a violation of this subsection pertaining to I.G. Levy Park shall again be permitted on such park.

(c) Dogs may be allowed on the public beach only in the area between Pascagoula Streetand Hague Street under the following conditions:

(1) A dog shall be under the immediate control of a responsible person.

(2) Any feces produced by a dog while on such beach shall be immediately collected and removed in a sanitary manner by the person having it under control.

(3) No dog shall attack any other dog or human.

(4) No dog shall be allowed to run free in the designated beach area.

(5) No dog involved in a violation of this subsection pertaining to the Pascagoula beach shall again be permitted on such beach.

(d) Owner as used herein means any person owning, keeping, harboring, or in possession of an animal.

Old Soldiers -- April 2010

Dorian Lee "Chic" Anderson, 79, passed away April 21 at his home in Ocean Springs. He was born April 28, 1930.
Anderson was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1954 with the rank of aviation electronics technician first class. He flew in missions off the USS Boxer CVA 21 and USS Oriskany CVA 34 during the Korean Crisis.

Specialist Aquaneldo Maurice Johnson

GULFPORT -- Specialist Aquaneldo Maurice Johnson was born to the late Jackson and Jean Johnson.

Johnson is survived by wife Karen Johnson and daughters Janae and Makia Johnson; mother Jean Johnson, sisters Jacqueline Glenn Moody, Marilyn Yvette Exum and Bonnie Stewart; a very special cousin, Precious Ann Thomas; god-brother Sedric Casey; grandchildren Kynnedi and Kassidy Johnson; nieces Talia Glenn and Bryanni Exurn; a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.

Funeral services will be Friday, April 23, 2010, with visitation at 8:30 a.m. and commemoration at 9:30 a.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church of Hansboro, 1100 E. Pass Road in Gulfport. Burial will follow at 11 a.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Read a complete obituary and sign his guestbook at http://www.marshallfh.com/.

Sheriff Honors Emergency Personnel for Rescue

PASCAGOULA -- Sheriff Mike Byrd has honored emergency personnel who helped rescue an infant from a house fire Feb. 18 in Gulf Park Estates, according to local news reports.

See Photos of Presentation at sunherald.com

The 5-month-old boy, Madden Graham Gunn, died Feb. 19 of burns and smoke inhalation at Children's Hospital in Birmingham, Ala.

Officers, Firefighter Honored for Bravery

www.sunherald.com, Tuesday, March 2, 2010

The honorees included Chief Michael Belton with the Fontainebleau Volunteer Fire Department, Mike Hurring, a deputy with Jackson County Sheriff's Department, and Ocean Springs police officers Jason Byrd and Steven Dye.

Sheriff Byrd made the presentation during a supervisors meeting on Monday, March 1.

Sheriff Honors Four Men for Rescue Work During House Fire

www.themississippipress.com, Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Grandmother Kathy V. Bradley, 57, was able to get out of the burning two-story home with 2-year-old Benjamin Gunn, but was unable to reach her grandson Madden.

Moss Point, Lucedale Firefighters Receive $335 in FEMA Funds

This article appeared in the Feb. 20, 2010, issue of The Mississippi Press

By APRIL M. HAVENS

Three local fire departments have received more than $335,000 in Federal Emergency Management Agency Firefighter Assistant Grant funds for training and equipment.

The Moss Point Fire Department received $107,735, and the Benndale and Central volunteer fire departments, both in Lucedale, received $121,600 and $107,550, respectively.

The grants are part of a $1.66 million program to help 17 fire departments around the state buy new equipment and vehicles.

Loraine Howell, George County's fire coordinator, said the Benndale and Central stations will use their grants for turnout gear (jackets and other personal protection equipment) and training upgrade courses.

"It's a big asset to us because it's going to equip them to have better response and in general make things better for the volunteer firefighters," Howell said. "We're happy to get any amount we can, and we have greatly improved through the AFG grants."

Howell said the grants also help the departments recruit more firefighters.

"Better equipment means more people are willing to volunteer," she said.

Tommy Posey, shift captain and grant writer at the Moss Point Fire Department, said their grant will fund safety vests, 20 new air packs and send 35 firefighters to driver training.

"In the last two years, I've gotten close to $486,000 in grants for the fire department," Posey said. "These grants are amazing, and they really help us out, especially since all the cities are in a bind financially."

Those grants have bought new radios, turnout gear and training, he said.

"We don't just sit here and depend on tax dollars," Posey said. "We go out looking for grants."

Posey still awaits word on two other 2009 grants that would help the department buy a new truck and remodel two of its older fire stations, he said.

Larger vehicle acquisition grants were awarded to East Covington Volunteer Fire Department in Collins, the Farmington Volunteer Fire Department in Corinth, and Silver Run Volunteer Fire Department in Perkinston, while 11 smaller grants went to departments for operations and safety.

The funds are in addition to 20 similar grants awarded in January and are awarded on a competitive basis by FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration.

"The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is useful to many rural and volunteer forces that might not otherwise have the resources to obtain the equipment they need to serve the public," Sen. Thad Cochran said in a news release. "I am pleased that FEMA has accepted grant applications from more fire departments in Mississippi."

In January, FEMA awarded $1.47 million in AFG grants to 20 local fire departments in Mississippi. Congress funded the program through the 2009 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill.

MDEQ Accepts NCBC into enHance Program

JACKSON – The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality

(MDEQ) recently accepted the Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) in

Gulfport as a leader in its enHance program.

enHance is a voluntary

stewardship program that recognizes committed environmental leaders who

accomplish goals beyond their legal requirements. enHance is open to

facilities, cities, counties, and other entities who are interested in the

program, and applicants can choose from three tiers: associate, steward,

or leader.

“We are pleased that the Naval Construction Battalion Center has joined the

enHance program, and they should be commended for their commitment to doing

good work and their leadership in achieving standards beyond their

environmental permit requirements,” said Trudy Fisher, MDEQ executive

director.

“This is great news," said Captain Ed Brown, commanding officer of Naval

Construction Battalion Center Gulfport. "Being part of this program will

help us be better environmental stewards and at the same time assist our

neighbors in Mississippi. The "Can Do" spirit of our personnel on base when

it comes to environmental excellence contributes every day to making the

Seabee Base and Mississippi an even better place to work and live.”

The enHance 2010 class includes three leaders: Caterpillar High

Performance Extrusions (Oxford), Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC)

(Gulfport), and Southern Natural Gas - Pickens Station (Pickens).

Five stewards were selected: Columbus Brick (Columbus), Leaf River Cellulose,

LLC (New Augusta), Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding (Gulfport), Northrop

Grumman Electronic Systems (Ocean Springs), and Northrop Grumman

Shipbuilding (Pascagoula).

The three associate members are: Choctaw Gas

Generation (Ackerman), GDF SUEZ Red Hills Power Plant (Ackerman), and Gulf

States Manufacturers - a Nucor Company (Starkville).

Information about the program is available at:

http://www.deq.state.ms.us/enhance.