Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11th, Jimmie Lillard
American Legion Post 31 in Rossville sponsored a covered dish luncheon for Veteran’s,
members and friends. After the lunch,
a presentation was made by Helen Lytle and June Burgett about the life of Jimmie
Lillard whom the post is named for.
Jimmie was a hometown boy.
Jimmie Lillard enlisted in the Army Feb. 17, 1941 and
achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant in May 1943. He was sent overseas to France in May of
1944. He was wounded in August of 1944
and rejoined his company in October of that year. He was awarded a Purple Heart for gallantry
in action at that time. He returned to
action and was killed on November 14, 1944 and was awarded another Purple
Heart.
American Legion Post 31 was given a permanent charter in
1958. Members voted that the Post would
be named after Staff Sgt. Lillard.
At the end of their presentation, Helen Lytle and June
Burgett, on behalf of Margie Lillard Hoobler, who is a sister of Jimmie
Lillard, presented to Penny Jamvold, Commander of Post 31 the Purple Heart
medals that were awarded to Jimmie Lillard.
The medals, along with other memorabilia, will be on permanent display
at the post.
To read the below articles or see details of the photos, go to:
Penny Jamvold, June Burgett, Helen Lytle
Thank you for your service & sacrifice, Staff Sgt Lillard.
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