SAFFORD — John Graves spoke of the heroism of William Shemin, an Army sergeant in World War I who, under heavy fire, rescued wounded and commanded his platoon after the platoon’s leaders were killed in action.
Graves also talked about Scott Ruskin, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer credited with saving 165 people during the flash flooding in Kerr County, Texas, this past July.
Graves, the post commander for American Legion Swift-Murphy Post 32, made his comments during the Veterans Day Ceremony at the Graham County Courthouse on Tuesday.
“Veterans need each other, but, more importantly, our country needs our veterans,” Grave said.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Also speaking was Ben Gardea, a Solomon native who served in the Arizona National Guard. He called on everyone to show their appreciation to those who have served.
“Too many have been forgotten,” Gardea said.
Eric Bejarano, assistant city manager for Safford and a Marine veteran, celebrated the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday with a Marine tradition — a cake cut by the oldest Marine in attendance, who then passes the first piece to the youngest Marine. Fred Sainz, 87, who served from 1956-1978, gave the piece to Dalton Henke, 20, who is currently assigned to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.
Gila Valley Honor Guard presented the colors and rifle salute, and the Thatcher High School Marching Band performed the national anthem.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
The Veterans Day ceremony was preceded by the Safford Veterans Day Parade, where more than 25 entries made their way down Main Street.
And the Safford Lions Club’s Field of Honor was on display on the lawns of the Courthouse and Safford City Hall.
The Field of Honor was started in 2019 and residents place a flag in honor of a family member or friend who served or is currently serving in any branch of the United State military. A tag naming the veteran or active-duty member of the military is attached to the flag pole.
This year a special section on the north side of the Courthouse, sponsored by American Legion Post 32, was set aside to honor Gila Valley service men and women who were killed in action or missing in action.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
