September 12, 2016
Page 2C
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
HONORING VETERANS 2016
STORIES IN THIS ISSUE Fannin County to celebrate
VETERANS DAY ......................................... Page 3
HONOR GUARD......................................... Page 4
ROGER ALPIN ........................................... Page 5
GREG COFFONE ....................................... Page 6
MARINE AND WIFE .................................. Page 8
KEN BRENNEMAN ................................. Page 10
RAY LEADER ........................................... Page 11
BILL HONAKER....................................... Page 12
BARRY VINCENT .................................... Page 13
JIM FULMER ........................................... Page 14
THOM POTITO ......................................... Page 15
Veterans Day Nov. 12
Fannin County will celebrate Veterans Day Saturday, Nov. 12 beginning with a breakfast, then a parade starting in Blue Ridge and ending
at Veterans Memorial Park for a service to honor veterans.
St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Blue Ridge invites all veterans to a
pancake and sausage breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m.
The annual Veterans Day Parade begins at 11 a.m. from the corner of
East Main and Church streets in Blue Ridge, down East Main Street to
East First Street then to Veterans Memorial Park across from Fannin
County Middle School.
Participating in the Parade will be the North Georgia Honor Guard,
other service members, the Mayor of Blue Ridge, the Fannin County
High School band, emergency vehicles, antique vehicles, floats and
others.
The service will begin at noon with the Fannin County Veterans Organizations hosting the event. The Honor Guard will post the colors,
the wreaths and conduct the opening ceremony. Keynote speaker will
be Fannin County Sheriff Dane Kirby. The Fannin County High School
band will provide music during the event.
The Huey (stationed at Veterans Park) will be open Saturday with
Trevor McIntyre available to answer questions.
Everyone is invited to attend.
HONORING VETERANS 2016
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 3C
Veterans Day 2016
The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.
That was the moment when World War I ended in 1918. One of
the most tragically senseless and destructive periods in all history
came to a close in Western Europe with the Armistice — or end of
hostilities between Germany and the Allied nations--that began at
that moment.
Casualties numbered 38 million, with over 17 million deaths
and 20 million wounded, ranking it among the deadliest conflicts
in human history--fighting that raged for more than four years
since August 1914. The complete end of the war came with the
Treaty of Versailles in June 1919.
The date of Nov. 11 became a national holiday of remembrance
in many of the victorious allied nations--a day to commemorate
the loss of so many lives in the war. And in the United States, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first Armistice Day on Nov.
11, 1919. A few years later, in 1926, Congress passed a resolution
calling on the President to observe each November 11th as a day of
remembrance.
The hopes that “the war to end all wars” would bring peace were
short-lived. By 1939, Europe was again at war and what was once
called “the Great War” would become World War I. With the end
of World War II, there was a movement in America to rename Armistice Day and create a holiday that recognized the veterans of all
of America’s conflicts. President Dwight Eisenhower signed that
law in 1954. (In 1971, Veterans Day began to be marked as a Monday holiday on the third Monday in November, but in 1978, the
holiday was returned to the traditional Nov. 11 date.)
Today, Veterans Day honors the duty, sacrifice and
service of America’s nearly 25 million veterans of all
wars. We should remember and celebrate those men
and women. But lost in that worthy goal is the forgotten meaning of this day in history--the meaning which
Congress gave to Armistice Day in 1926, “To perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations...inviting the people of the United
States to observe the day...with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.”
Today we honor all those who gave their lives and
all those who have risked their lives so that our nation
might remain free. And we honor all those who at this
very moment are standing watch for freedom and security from our bases across the United States to our
mission around the world. To each and every American who has worn the uniform of the United States
Armed Forces we say simply, from the bottom of our
hearts, thank you.
America will never forget the service you have rendered, and America will never forget those who did
not return from our battlefields.
Veterans Day arouses three emotions in most
Americans: solemnity, because it celebrates the vet-
erans who have defended our great country; sadness, because so
many have lost their lives in the process; and pride, because they
have fought so well.
The supreme value that our veterans have fought and died for
(with some tragic exceptions) from the American Revolution to the
Civil War to two World Wars is–freedom. America is the country
of freedom. We were the first to declare that government exists to
serve men; men do not exist to serve government. We were the first
to proclaim that all men are equal before the law. We were the first
to say that each individual has inalienable rights–the right to his
life, his liberty, his property, and the pursuit of his happiness.
There is no more precious possession than one’s own life. But
without political freedom, human life is empty. Man cannot exist in
any meaningful sense as a serf. The New Hampshire motto says it
perfectly: “Live Free or Die.”
There are over 1.3 million U.S soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines on active duty, and more than 150,000 of them are stationed
in foreign countries.
So far, more than 6,800 U.S. servicemen and women have died
during the military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and at least
52,000 more have been wounded.
The best way we can honor our veterans and give real meaning
to Veterans Day–aside from ceremonies honoring their past and
present dedication and bravery–is to promise that we will go to war
only when America’s interests as a free nation are threatened.
God bless our veterans--and God bless America!
Page 4C
HONORING VETERANS 2016
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
North Georgia Honor Guard–more than what you see
By Elaine Owen, Editor
Most people in Blue Ridge are familiar with the distinguished group
of men and women dressed in black
and white who perform military honors, offering a final salute for military
members and veterans. This year, the
North Georgia Honor Guard (NGHG)
performed at more than 60 funerals
and over 100 ceremonies in the north
Georgia area.
Those “other” ceremonies were
posting the colors at store openings,
schools, official government meetings
and civic and social gatherings. Just
recently the NGHG was asked to perform the opening ceremony at a veterans conference held in Blue Ridge;
post the colors at a Tea Party Patriot
meeting where State Senator Steve
Gooch was speaking; demonstrating proper flag etiquette and how to
fold the American flag to elementary
students, raising the flag at the beginSee HONOR GUARD pg8C
North Georgia Honor Guard performs opening and closing ceremonies for veterans conference at Comfort Inn in Blue Ridge.
560 East Main St.
Blue Ridge, Ga, 30513
706-258-2867
576 East Main Street
Blue Ridge, GA 301513
706-946-6164
67 Roberts Way
Blue Ridge, GA 30513
(706) 946-1511
We Proudly Salute
All our Veterans
and Currently Serving
Military Men and Women
HONORING VETERANS 2016
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 5C
Roger Alpin
U.S. Air Force 1967–72
Roger McAlpin enlisted in the Air Force in November 1967 and was discharged in February 1972.
He graduated from
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and soon after graduation received his draft
notice.
“I really didn’t want to
go into the Army. I went to
the Navy recruitment center but once they saw I had
a draft notice they didn’t
want me. I then tried the
Air Force and I was accepted.”
It was off to Officer’s
Training School (OTS) at Lackland Air Force Base, Tex.
“I had some military training while at Virginia Tech so there were
no surprises; I actually enjoyed it.”
He was sent to Sunnyvale, California to a Naval base where the Air
Force had a facility. As a Technical Intelligence Officer, McAlpin was
assigned to the Space and Missile System Organization (SAMSO), the
satellite spy program that watched activities around the world.
“Operating 110 miles in space, it was extremely powerful. I remember one photo of a parking lot. Someone had dropped a pencil and in
the photo we could read that it was a number two lead,” he stated.
Wondering aloud, McAlpin said, “That was 50 years ago. I can’t
imagine what today’s satellites can accomplish.”
McAlpin has a firm opinion on service to the country. “I think every man and woman should serve two years but not necessarily in the
Armed Forces. There are many organizations such as the Peace Corps
where a person can serve his country.”
In addition, McAlpin said, “I think that
such service would help a person develop
and learn about life.”
McAlpin personally believes his time in
the service helped him to work better with
people and learn to work together.
McAlpin’s father, Arthur, was a pilot on
an aircraft carrier during World War 2.
In his civilian career, McAlpin worked
with Anheuser Busch for 32 years. During
this time, he also earned a Brewmaster degree. He was instrumental in starting up
several breweries including the one in Cartersville, Ga. There are 13 Anheuser Busch
breweries and McAlpin has worked in all of
them. Anheuser Busch has facilities in Japan and Korea. As a member of the International Breweries Department, McAlpin
traveled a lot.
“For a time my schedule was five days in Korea and five days in Japan. I especially enjoyed Korea as the people were very friendly.”
In 1999, McAlpin retired and with his wife, Brenda, moved to
Blairsville where her mother lives.
In retirement, McAlpin became involved in the AARP Drivers Safety Program as an instructor. Today he is the State of Georgia Coordinator for the program. There are 180 instructors in the Georgia program.
“It is a volunteer, non-paying job but I truly enjoy doing it.”
In his spare time, McAlpin does some mission work and wood
working but what he really likes most is his recent interest. “After I
retired I started tinkering with antique clocks and I love it. The more
clocks the better!
Today and
Every Day,
You are our
Heroes!
Jim & Elaine
We Thank You Brave Men & Women
for Your Service to Our Country!
LET FREEDOM RING!
I
N
C HO L S
TIRE
O
N
Nicholson Tire
Damascus Rd., Blue Ridge • Murphy Hwy, Mineral Bluff
706-964-8473 • 706-374-5801
Page 6C
HONORING VETERANS 2016
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
Greg Coffone
E-5 Aviation Electrician 2nd Class
Shortly after he graduatd from high school in
Tulsa, Okla. in 1968, Greg
Coffone enlisted in the service.
He said, “I just wasn’t
college material.”
He chose the Navy.
“You know...join the Navy
and see the world.”
Born in New Jersey,
Coffone’s parents died
when he was very young
and he was brought up by
an aunt and uncle, living
both in Tulsa and West
Palm Beach.
He enlisted in West
Palm Beach and spent
eight weeks in boot camp
in Orlando. “It was challenging both physically and mentally.”
He has one specific vivid memory of that period.
“One night the unit commander was meeting informally with us. He
said, ‘When I go with a program, I go with the program full force.’ And
that is what I have followed in my life. It made me what I am today.”
“Saluting our Veterans
since 1948!”
After boot camp, Coffone spent 22 weeks at Aviation Electrician
Mate School. He met and married his wife, Thelma, in a ceremony in
1970 at the Jacksonville Naval Air Station Chapel.
Then it was on to Whiting Field in Milton, Fla. near Pensacola.
While assigned to work on the planes, which were T-28 trainers, Coffone discovered he had a passion for flying.
“After we fixed the problem with the plane I would go up with the
test pilot to see if the repair had corrected the problem. Frequently he
would let me ‘take the stick.’”
He logged over 100 hours in the air over the Florida panhandle.
Looking back, Coffone admitted a bit of regret. “I was young...just
married; uncertain in my thinking...maybe I should have stayed in the
Navy and made it a career.”
Coffone was assigned to the Attack Squadron VA 83 and deployed
to the aircraft carrier the USS Forrestal in the Mediterranean.
“That was interesting but dangerous duty. While working on the
flight deck, you learned very quickly to keep your head up and never to
get complacent about your job. It was a very scary place with jets taking
off and landing all around you,” he remembered.
During his tour of duty on the aircraft carrier, Coffone visited Greece,
Sicily and Turkey, all courtesy of Uncle Sam.
“I especially liked my time in Greece, particularly Athens and the
Greek Islands. I would really like to take Thelma to Greece. Maybe
someday.”
After four years of service, Coffone was discharged in Jacksonville
in February 1973.
Reflecting for a moment on the military today, Coffone feels many
young people could benefit from time in the service. “I know it made me
what I am today.”
Coffone agrees with women being in service except, combat.
Coffone returned to West Palm Beach and joined Southern Bell
where he worked for 21 years as a technician and later a first level supervisor.
While vacationing in the Blue Ridge area, the Coffones bought property in 1984 and made the move here 22 years ago. They operated one
of the first vacation rental businesses in North Georgia and retired in
2009.
Coffone is well known in the area as he is a former on-air personality on both WPPL and WLSB radio stations. “People come up to me all
the time and say they recognize my voice and miss hearing me on air,”
Coffone said.
He is also a past president of the Blue Ridge Kiwanis Club and a
former member of the Board of Directors of the Vacation Rental Manager’s Assn., an international organization.
Most of Coffone’s time these days is spent volunteering with area
veterans organizations. He is a member of the VFW Post 6570, American Legion 248, DAV 28 and an associate member of the Marine Corps
League. Detachment 1438.
“I am especially active with the North Georgia Honor Guard which
provides military rites at the funeral services of area veterans. This year
the Guard has taken part in 42 ceremonies and I have been to 41 of
them.”
Thelma is the Memorial Lady for the organization.
His activities with veterans groups definitely is a priority with Coffone but he does make time to take part in Fannin County Shop With A
Cop which provides Christmas gifts and other items for children.
HONORING VETERANS 2016
We are honored to host Project Healing Waters
Thursday, Nov. 10 in honor of Veterans Day. The Ken
Bachman Veterans Day of Respect is just one way we
show our appreciation for veterans every day.
Come see us at
Noontootla Creek Farms
3668 Newport Road
Blue Ridge GA.30513
706-838-0585
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 7C
Page 8C
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
HONORING VETERANS 2016
Marine and wife get “best ever”
gift and welcome to Blue Ridge
The 2nd annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball will be Saturday at the
Blue Ridge Swim & Tennis Club. In attendance will be hundreds of Marines, spouses and other guests. One unexpected couple will be there
who “never dreamed we’d ever get to go” will also be there. The logistics of how this happened is not complicated at all--considering the
Marines were in charge.
Marine Joel Warner was shopping in Home Depot, met part-time
clerk Christina Sutherland. During their conversation, Warner casually
mentioned that he and his wife Liz would be going to the Birthday Ball.
Sutherland’s eyes lit up. “I’ve always wanted to go--but I can’t,” she
said. Then she told Warner that her husband is a disabled Marine and
they had just moved to Blue Ridge from South Carolina. Warner called
other Marines and soon learned that Mike Nunnally happened to have
two extra tickets.
The rest of this story is magical. Last week, Nunnally, Jeff O’Neall,
organizer of the Birthday Ball, and Warner surprised Sutherland at
work and presented her with the tickets. After thanking the Marines,
Sutherland said, “Now, I’ve got to find a dress!”
HONOR GUARD continued from page 4C
ning of the soccer season--and many other occasions.
These dedicated men and women devote hours every week in all kinds of
weather to make others lives better; to offer comfort to families who have lost
a loved one; to educate young people...and today is our day to thank them.



  



Honor Guard posts the colors to open Fannin County Tea Party Patriots
(FCTPP) meeting Nov. 3. From Left: Chuck Clark, Grey Coffone, Richard
Crosley, FCTPP Chairman Lane Bishop, Sen. Steve Gooch and Dennis Rich.
HONORING VETERANS 2016
ART SWEETEN - USAF
Lackland AFB, Texas
Security Guard
Colorado Springs
Beall AFB
Vietnam
1962
Thank You
Veterans
MERCIER ORCHARDS
8660 Blue Ridge Drive
Blue Ridge, GA 30513
706-632-3411
CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 9C
Page 10C
HONORING VETERANS 2016
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
Ken Brenneman
USAF – Lt. Colonel
One of the most memorable moments in the 21-year Air Force career of Ken Brenneman occurred on June 14, 1986 when he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant at Ohio State University as a member
of the Air Force ROTC.
It was just the beginning of many memorable incidents as his Air
Force career took him to Iceland, Afghanistan, Japan, Washington, Qatar and more before his discharge as a Lt. Colonel on Jan.1, 2008 in
South Carolina.
After training as a helicopter pilot, his first tour of duty was in Japan
where he flew local and visiting dignitaries as needed.
Then it was on to Washington where he was a part of a special unit
selected for their skill and experience. His duties were similar to his
Japan assignment.
“I flew almost all the Washington officials except for President and
Mrs. Clinton as well as visiting foreign dignitaries.”
Another memorable moment. “I taxied in Air Force One and my
family and I had a tour of the plane. It’s awesome.”
In 1995 Brenneman joined a combat rescue outfit flying Pave Hawks
and was stationed in Iceland.
“I vividly remember my first rescue. It was a fisherman, actually a
fisherwoman, 460 miles off shore. She had a miscarriage and we were
successfully able to rescue her and get her to a hospital.”
He moved on to Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta, the Rescue and
Combat Center for Iraq.
A year later Brenneman was assigned to Robins Air Force Base in
Macon where he was the Active Duty Liaison Officer at the Reserves
Headquarters.
“Our mission was always as a facilitator, working together to coordinate rescues.”
He was deployed from here to Iraq where the mission became more
dangerous. “We were constantly on the alert. But it was here that we
had what we been waiting for...an opportunity to do what we had been
trained to do.”
“It was very satisfying. The rescue unit is a very dedicated group...it
is by what we do that others may live.”
In 2006 Brenneman was sent overseas for a year as Director of the
Joint Personnel Recovery Center. It served a 27 country area including
several in Africa with an estimated population of 250,000 people.
Veterans – Thank You
for Your Service!
KAYES AUTO PARTS
2445 E. First Street
Blue Ridge, GA
706-632-2233
(In image above, Brenneman is in center, shown with two friends in Iceland.)
“Again it was coordinating all agencies and individuals to facilitate
rescues.”
Back to the States in 2006 to South Carolina, continuing to coordinate the assignment and deploying of recovery units as needed.
Brenneman briefly considered extending his service career but decided it was time for him to “once again reinvent myself”’ and try a
civilian career.
With family ties in Alabama, he joined a waste disposal company
which was getting organized.
He enjoyed it but “old friends” called and in 2011 Brenneman returned to the Middle East and for three years worked with government
private contractors. “I was working on an airport project about 60 miles
from Bagdad. Our goal was to create an airport where F16s could land.
When ISIS invaded and captured the city of Mosul, we had to abandon
it. Later work resumed and F16s can now land there.”
In another project, he was in Kabul working to train local pilots and
help to develop an Air Force for the country. “We had to be constantly
on the alert for suicide bombers and sneak attacks.”
Back in the States again, the always active Brenneman looked for
another way “to re-invent himself.”
He and his wife, Terri, had vacationed in Blue Ridge and enjoyed it.
When the Blue Jeans restaurant was up for sale a year ago, Brenneman
bought it. Despite no restaurant experience, Brenneman said, “I’ve
been serving people all my life. Now I’m serving people again--but salad and pizza this time.”
He is busy making changes at Blue Jeans. “We are adding 40 more
seats in what used to be the original restaurant. We are also renovating a section to be a lounge. Lounge hours will be determined by the
patrons.”
Thoughts for the future. “I would like to go back to Japan and Iceland. I enjoyed the country and have great respect for the people.”
For recreation, he says, “I took a boat out on Lake Blue Ridge for
the first time last week and had a wonderful three hours. I’m an avid
golfer but haven’t had much time for it lately. Maybe some recreational
flying.”
Brenneman also keeps in touch with friends in the service, many
who suggest he return to active duty.
“Not a chance, he says, “I’m having too much fun in Blue Ridge.”
HONORING VETERANS 2016
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 11C
Ray Leader
U.S. Army SSgt 1958-66
Ray Leader turned 18
in September 1958 and
five days later enlisted in
the Army.
“I always knew I
wanted to join the Army.
I was probably influenced by my stepfather,
Mike. He was a career
soldier serving 22 years.
He was at Pearl Harbor when the Japanese
struck on Dec. 7, 1941
and also served in Korea.”
Leader did his basic training at Fort Dix
in New Jersey. Unlike
many recruits, Leader
said, “I actually enjoyed it.”
Next was Fort Gordon in Ga. and Fort Monmouth in New
Jersey for Communication and Security Training. He went on
to become an instructor at Fort Gordon before being deployed
to Iran.
“This was interesting duty. We worked with military advisory groups of the Iranian Army. I also learned how to fly while
there. We needed a co-pilot on our surveillance planes and I
was a fast learner.” Leader added, “I found the people and the
culture of the country very interesting, particularly because I
am a history buff. My major at Mercer College was history.”
While most people envision the country as desert and desolate, Leader said parts of the country are wooded and beautiful.
After 18 months in Iran, Leader returned to the States for
Air Traffic Control School.
He remained here until his discharge at Fort Benning in November 1966 as a Staff Sergeant.
Looking back on his years in the service, Leader said, “I enjoyed every minute of it. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
He believes, too, that a year or two in the service, military or
community program, should be mandatory and would be beneficial to the individual.
Citing his own service experience, Leader said, “I know it
helped me develop a work ethic and also taught me self-discipline.”’
His civilian career choice after his discharge was an easy
one. “I loved my air controller job in the service and wanted to
continue.”
In 1968 Leader became an air controller at the Columbus,
Ga. airport and soon after moved to the Atlanta airport where
he stayed for 30 years.
Leader was at the airport on 911 when the terrorist planes
struck the twin towers.
“We had to get every plane in the country out of the sky.
Within an hour, I believe between three and four thousand
planes around the country had all been landed. It was an incredible feat.”
While air controller jobs are considered as one of the most
stressful occupations, Leader said, “It is a job where you have
to be constantly on the alert but I did not find it overly stressful.”
While Leader has an interest in aviation and has a private
pilot’s license, railroads are another interest stemming from
his childhood.
“I was brought up in Harrisburg, Penn. “I had an uncle who
was a conductor on the Washington to New York and another
was with a freight line; both Pennsylvania railroads. As a kid, I
rode the train a lot.”
Leader is a railroad buff and when the Blue Ridge community became interested in developing a scenic railway, he was
contacted. He worked with them and in 1998 the Blue Ridge
Scenic Railway became a reality. He became the General Manager and served for 10 years before retiring last year when the
railway was sold. He continues to ride the train and volunteers
as a conductor. “I really enjoy it. I love meeting the kids. They
are so excited to be on the train. They always want to know
who’s running the train.”
Leader is pleased with the success of the train.
“The first year we had 17,000 passengers. Last year we had
65,000. I think this year we may have even more.”
He plans a road trip of his own. “In January, my wife and
a group of friends will go to Denver and board the Zephyr for
a trip to Salt Lake City. We will be traveling through canyon
country. I know the scenery will be spectacular.”
In Honor of our Fathers
Col. Howell Preston Mercer Sr. - US Army WWII, Korea
Hilton P. Byrd - US Army WWII
Matthew and Susan Mercer
Page 12C
HONORING VETERANS 2016
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
Bill Honaker
U.S. Army 1962–1983
Bill Honaker is an
Army veteran who served
during the period October 1962 to March 1983.
His occupation for 17 of
his 20 years was in the
field of Memorial Affairs,
where he cared for warriors who died serving
their country. He was an
instructor three different
times at Fort Lee, Va.,
teaching young men and
women how to perform
their duties and care for
fallen warriors.
He was instrumental
in developing Skill Qualification Testing for Memorial Affairs soldiers,
and assisted in rewriting
Department of the Army
regulations and Field Manuals pertaining to Memorial Affairs for
the modern battlefield. His last active duty assignment was with the
Troop Support Agency at Fort Lee, Va. as Senior Enlisted NCO responsible for readiness of Memorial Affairs units world-wide.
His medals include the Meritorious Service Medal with 1st Oak
Leaf Cluster, the Bronze Star medal with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster and
the Army Commendation medal with 2d Oak Leaf Clusters. He is a
graduate of Saint Leo College with a BA in Sociology. He retired from
the Army in March 1983 as a Master Sergeant.
He is also a retired Christian Minister, having served in an International ministry in Texas and Field Director in Australia, and 16
years as Associate Pastor at House of Prayer Church in Blairsville.
He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Vietnam
Veterans of America.
He has been married 55 years to the former Bobbie Reece, a native of Union County, and they have two children who are married,
eight grandchildren and one great granddaughter.
He has also written a book entitled “The Dead Were Mine” which
details his two tours of duty in Vietnam, caring for fallen warriors.
Book can be requested by emailing Bill at bhonaker@windstream.
net. Cost is $10.00 plus $2.50 for shipping.
IN HIS WORDS
I went into military service on Oct. 26, 1962 at the Recruiting
Main Station in Atlanta, Georgia.
I joined the United States Army as a volunteer, with a three-year
commitment, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. I had a sense of patriotism and felt that my country needed me.
I took my basic Army training at Fort Gordon, GA. I had eight
weeks of training. After Basic Training, I was sent to Fort Sill, OK,
for eight weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) as an Artillery
Cannoneer.
My first assignment after AIT was with Battery B, 2d Howitzer
Battalion, 31st Field Artillery at Fort Sill, OK. I was very fortunate to
be able to work in the Battery Orderly Room as a clerk typist, because
of my typing skills.
I had four overseas assignment during my 20 years, 5 months
and 3 days in the Army.
– September 16, 1963-June 10, 1966 in Germany, stationed with
Headquarters Company, 4th Armored Division in Goppingen, Germany. I was a Company Clerk, and Training Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) during this time.
– December 6, 1966-November 30, 1967 in Vietnam, stationed
with Company A, 9th Supply and Transport Battalion, 9th Infantry
Division in the Mekong Delta at Bearcat Base Camp. I was a Memorial Activities NCO operating a collecting point that processed fallen
warriors.
– July 2, 1969-November 30, 1970 in Vietnam, stationed with the
Graves Registration Platoon, 243 Field Service Company in Pleiku.
I was a Memorial Activities NCO operating a collecting point that
processed fallen warriors.
– December 1, 1969-June 29, 1970 Still in Vietnam, Assigned to
Detachment 1, 243rd Field Service Company, with Temporary Duty
Station at 1st Logistical Command in Qui Nhon, Vietnam. Served
as Memorial Activities Platoon Sergeant during Operation Compassion. This was a theater-wide effort to locate and recover Missing in
Action and Prisoner of War personnel.
– February 2, 1972-February 15, 1976 in Germany, stationed with
the US Army Mortuary System, Europe in Frankfurt, Germany. I
was a Memorial Activities NCO Supervisor, working in Administration and Operations.
During my military career I also had assignments in Fort Carson,
CO; Fort Riley, KS; and Fort Lee, VA.
I would definitely recommend mandatory military service for today’s young men who are qualified physically and mentally. It would
give them an understanding of being a part of something bigger than
themselves, with the satisfaction of having contributed to their country’s defense and freedom. They would also benefit from the educational benefits available after service.
I am not convinced that women should serve in Combat Arms
Specialties. There are many military occupations available that women would be suited for. There may be some women who have the
strength, stamina and fortitude for combat, but I believe it would
be a very small percentage. I also think of the ramifications of their
serving alongside men in a long term on-going battlefield scenario. I
don’t think it is advisable.
My military experience changed my life drastically and helped me
to be more disciplined and ordered in my life. I was a part of something that really gave me pride in what I was doing.
I moved to Blairsville, GA from Asheville, NC in 1958, with my
family. My dad was the first manager of Arbor Acres Poultry Industry
which formed here in Blairsville.
I have been married 55 years to the former Bobbie Reece, a native
of Union County, and we have two children who are married, eight
grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.
HONORING VETERANS 2016
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 13C
Barry Vincent
U.S. Army 1969–1993 Lt. Colonel
Upon graduation from Texas Tech University with a BA degree in 1969 and as a member of the ROTC program, Barry Vincent was commissioned a Second Lieutenant.
The decision to make it a career came later; and perhaps
there was some bias in his decision.
“I was an Army brat. My Dad served 21 years in the Army
during World War II and Korea. By time I was in the fifth grade
I had lived in several states as well as in Japan and Germany.”
Vincent began his career at Fort Bliss in the Air Defense
Artillery program. He later transferred to the Quartermaster
Corps, and for 24 years he served his country in various logistics
management assignments in the States and Europe. He retired
in January 1993 as a Lt. Colonel.
After just a few months, Vincent was assigned to Army Helicopter Flight School at Fort Walters, Texas. “I was trained as a
pilot and already had a private plane pilot license.”
Vietnam was next. “I flew a Cobra attack helicopter with the
10l Airborne Division. We supported our soldiers on the ground.
I saw quite a bit of combat and had some close calls but we always made it back to base okay.”
Then it was back to Ft. Bliss and Air Defense School where
he commanded a 200-man Hawk Missile Battery.
A change of pace and Vincent went to Quartermaster School
at Ft. Lee, VA followed by the next two years at the University of
Alabama for grad school in business.
He was next assigned to Fort McClellan as a Project Officer
in Combat Developments at the Military Police School.
In 1979 Vincent was assigned to Fulda, Germany and the
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment.
“The fence separating East and West Germany was still there
and we were always busy. We had 3,000 men and it was probably
my most challenging assignment outside of flying in Vietnam.”
Army Command and Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas for a year was next, followed by three years teaching ROTC
at Jacksonville State University.
In 1986 Vincent returned to Germany. This time to
Zweibruecken, close to the French border. “It was quite different from Fulda and the East German border,” he said.
Vincent was stationed at Zweibruecken for three years and
his family was with him. “In my off duty time we did a lot of
traveling throughout Europe.”
The final three years of his Army career were spent at
Fort McPherson, GA as Chief ofLogistics Readiness Office,
FORSCOM J-4 (Logistics).
During his career, Vincent was awarded several honors. Among
them are: the Army Aviator Badge, the Distinguished Flying Cross
and the Air Medal with “V”, both for heroism while flying in support
of ground forces in Vietnam; multiple awards of the Air Medal for
achievement, a Bronze Star, and multiple awards of the Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal. His unit in
Vietnam also received
the U.S. Army’s Valorous Unit Award and the
Vietnamese Cross of
Gallantry with Palm for
sustained combat action during Operation
Lam Son 719 (the Vietnamese Army incursion
into Laos in 1971).
After retirement he
was employed for 20
years by several trucking companies and the
State of Georgia in Atlanta.
Vacations in Blue
Ridge led to the couple’s retiring here. Active in the community,
Vincent has been with
the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for 15 years.
“We love to travel. We’ve been back to Germany, to Russia
and shortly we are going on a tour of New England.”
Vincent belongs to the national Vietnam Helicopter Pilots
Association but no local veteran groups.
He does keep in touch with some of his fellow soldiers. And,
when he meets other veterans, he feels a special bond with those
who saw combat. “Can’t quite explain it but I do.”
Among his career memories is the loss in combat of his flight
school friend. “His name was Mike Arrants. He went to Vietnam
before I did. He was only there two weeks when he was shot
down and fatally wounded.”
Looking back on his career, Vincent is proud of his service. “I
think I’d still be in Texas if I hadn’t enlisted.”
Thank You
Veterans
4507 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
Toll Free: 866-599-3234 706-492-3234
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Page 14C
HONORING VETERANS 2016
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
Jim Fulmer
US Army SP5
Jim Fulmer did not join the service by choice. It was decided for him.
He was drafted.
He was living in Lockport, NY and it was December 1962. He was
discharged two years later.
And just months later, this time by choice, he enlisted and spent
eight years on active duty.
Fulmer was born in New Alexander, Penn., a coal mining town. During his childhood his family moved around to other coal mining areas as
his father worked in the coal mines.
“He worked in the mines for 21 years,” he said, adding that he never
had any interest in following in his footsteps.
His basic training was at Fort Dix, NJ and he went on to Ft. Eustis,
VA for helicopter repair school. His first assignment was in Fairbanks,
Alaska.
“It is beautiful country but it is cold. But coming from northern New
York state I really didn’t mind it.”
There was one scary incident while he was stationed there.
“We had an earthquake and seeing everything swaying and shaking
was frightening. Fortunately, we were all okay.”
Fulmer saw a bit of the world as his tour of duty continued.
From Alaska it was to Korea. Fulmer said, “Korea was another beautiful country. I really enjoyed being there.”
He then left the helicopter unit and was assigned to medical supply.
Back to Alabama for a few months then to Okinawa, which he said
was, “another beautiful
area.”
Next stop the Orient-Japan, which he said was,
“a totally different experience.”
It was back to Okinawa
for a few months before his
discharge in January 1973
at the US Army War College
in Pennsylvania.
After his discharge he
returned to northern New
York state for a short time
then moved South to Tampa where he worked at the
Tampa VA Hospital and was
a volunteer with the Salvation Army. He lived there
for 30 years before moving
to Ellijay six years ago.
Last year he moved to Blue Ridge where he is active in the Morganton Baptist Association.
Looking back on his service career, Fulmer said, “My years in the
service made me a better man” but acknowledged he did have some issues with alcohol
during those years. He added with pride, “I
have been sober for 35 years.”
480 West Main Street
Fulmer thinks mandatory service would
Blue Ridge, GA 30513
benefit both the individual and the country.
“I would like to see the draft come back.
706-946-3663
Women in the service? Fulmer isn’t very
enthusiastic about this idea. “Maybe in some
jobs but never in combat.”
Fulmer is married and has two children.
Salutes Our
Veterans for
Their Service
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HONORING VETERANS 2016
Thursday, November 10, 2016 • FANNIN SENTINEL Page 15C
Thom Potito
Marine SSgt-E6
On Jan 12, 1969 Thom
Potito turned 17. That
same day Potito went to
the Springfield, Mass.
Marine Recruitment Center and enlisted.
“I knew since I was a
little kid that I wanted to
join the service. I chose
the Marines,” Potito said.
His decision was likely
biased. “On one side of my
family I had nine uncles
and on the other, I had
six uncles, all who served
during World War II.”
Potito remembers vividly his first day and night
as a Marine at Camp Le
Jeune, NC.
“It was sheer shock.
They woke us at 3 a.m.
Then they shaved our
heads. Bald. Then drill. All within six hours.” Boot camp was eight
weeks and more of the same.
Potito admitted it was tough but he made it. He didn’t realize at that
time the Marine Corps would be his life until retiring in 1990. What
was ahead of him was a wide variety of training, a year in Vietnam an
assignment in Japan, twice.
Not long after he completed boot camp he was deployed to Vietnam. Trained in an infantry unit, in Vietnam he was a radio operator
for a unit. “I did see quite a bit of combat but fortunately did not get
hit,” he said.
Returning to the States to Cherry Point, NC, Potito had “sort of mechanic’s training on fixed wing aircraft.”
In 1972, something new came up for Potito. “I was assigned to Drill
Instructor School. That was tough. We started with a class of 131 and
just 30 of us graduated.”
Describing the job of Drill Instructor, Potito said, “We teach everything about how to be a Marine. Every 12 weeks we worked with a
platoon of 90 raw recruits. Usually about 45 make it to graduation.”
Potito recalled one member of a platoon he worked with. “His name
was Bob Chase. Today he is a General and is Under Secretary of SES
Central Command.
In 1975, Potito was assigned to New River Air Station in NC and his
mechanic training was put to use with the helicopter units there.
By 1979, Beirut was a hot spot and Marines, including Potito, were
sent to the Mediterranean and stationed aboard a helicopter carrier.
“We were a combat team on the ready.”
From 1979 to 1984, Potito was assigned twice to Japan then returned to the Naval Aviation Department as a crew chief.
“We test flew aircraft. As a crew chief I was also a co-pilot. I was a
fast learner.”
Two years later Potito was an Inspector Instructor Director in the
metropolitan New York area where he remained until his discharge as
a Staff Sergeant in 1990.
Of his many experiences in the Marines, he considers two his most
rewarding.
“I really enjoyed being a drill Instructor. I liked working with the
raw recruits and took great pride when they successfully made it.”
The other was during his assignment in metropolitan New York.
“We did a lot of public relations such as Toys for Tots. Celebrities like
Robert Merrill were so supportive.”
As a veteran, Potito has a low opinion of the Veterans Administration. “It took me three years to get an appointment for a condition that
worsened with time. I am now going to Atlanta and receiving care. The
VA needs more doctors. Washington should not be cutting the VA budget to help programs such as immigrant issues.”
After his discharge, Potito once again followed a family tradition.
Six of his uncles who served in World War II joined law enforcement
as civilian careers.
Potito became a deputy with the Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff’s Department. After 15 years as a deputy he retired in 2013.
Potito has firm opinions on serving in the military. “I think military
service should be mandatory. I think kids today are self-centered. They
are more concerned about what their country can do for them rather
than what they can do for their country.”
Speaking of the influence his Marine career has had on his life, Potito said, “It has taught me love of country, duty, honor and integrity.”
Closely bonded to many of his fellow Marines, Potito keeps in frequent touch with many. “Several of us get together at least a twice or
three times a year. A couple are fellows I served with 20 years ago.”
Potito and his wife, Lou Anne, retired in Blue Ridge about three
years ago.
“Lou Anne is from Missouri and said she wouldn’t leave the South.
I wanted mountains. A vacation trip here settled it. Blue Ridge it was.”
In his spare time Potito said, “I enjoy woodworking but mainly I am
doing my wife’s projects. I just finished a pavilion. A fireplace is next.”
Potito is also a member of the Marine Corps League.
Taking a look back at his 23-year Marine Corps career, Potito said,
“I loved every minute of it...the good and the bad...and Yes, I would do
it again.”
Thank You to all Veterans
for their Service
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3980 East First Street, Suite 3
Blue Ridge, GA 30513
706-946-4600
Page 16C
HONORING VETERANS 2016
FANNIN SENTINEL • Thursday, November 10, 2016
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THANK YOU VETERANS
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to you, on this day and every day. The sacrifices you have made throughout
your time in service comes second to none. By dedicating your life to protect our nation, sacrificing years without family,
your display of valor for our nations citizens will forever remain the prime example of heroism. You continue your eternal
leadership to this day, paving the way for new recruits and those currently serving to preserve your legacy. We continue to call
our country “The Land of the Free & The Home of the Brave” solely because of the unthinkable sacrifices made by thousands
of men and women like you to ensure our safety. For this, I, and the entire nation of the United States of America is forever
grateful.
Thank You & God Bless You Always,
Donna Whitener
266 ORVIN LANCE DRIVE • BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 •(706) 632-8280