Seo was only 3
years old when the American forces entered his Korean homeland, and he was
on hand to say thanks for saving him and his family. He and his wife awarded
flowers to the veterans and members of their families.
Ron Smithley was
on hand for the dedication. His brother, Edward, died on Korean soil.
Mrs. Donald
MacGowan was awarded a flag by the American Legion. Mrs. MacGowan lost her
son, Donald Jr., in the war.
State
Representative Mary Ann Middaugh delivered a speech, commending the men and
women who gave so much.
A special
commendation was awarded to Jerry Cheshire from Michigan Governor John
Engler, and Hartford Mayor Ted Johnson read a proclamation from the Governor.
The monument project was spearheaded by Jan Kelly, who solicited funds,
designed the monument, orchestrated the installation of the monument, and
was the master of ceremonies for the program.
Betty Blanton and
the patrons of CJ's Bar and Grill raised over $1,000 with their buying of
stars for the monument. Jim Walls-Hartford Lions Club made a sizable
donation. American Legion Stoddard Post 93 also contributed to the fund, as
did Steve Lanphear, Bruce Little, Ruth Duffy, Bob Hall, AR Controls (Ron and
Emma Sefcik), and Waja Builders of Dowagiac.
Members of
Stoddard Post 93 hosted a spaghetti dinner at the hall after the dedication.
They would like to thank Harding's Friendly Markets of Hartford, Coloma and
Watervliet; Kreamo Bakers Inc.; and Meijer's Thrifty Acres of Benton Harbor
for their kind donations toward the dinner.
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