Revised May 27 at 10 p.m.
Display of Service uniforms and memorabilia, dedicated to past Legion Commander Larry Everett
In honor of Memorial Day, Diane Baxter, American Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary member, has created a display of military and aid service mementos of Orcas Islanders, their family and friends.
The exhibit at the Legion Hall next to Country Corner “all started by finding a Navy uniform top at The Exchange..The Unknown Sailor,” says Baxter.”Next it was something patriotic received in the mail; then photos and an article in a magazine; and finally, in conversations.
“Taking these into account as hints, I decided to look into finding military service
uniforms and mementos representing the patriotic service in our community and displaying them in an honorable, respectful and appreciative manner.”
As a member of the American Legion Post 93 Women’s Auxiliary, Diane Baxter began by dedicating this exhibit, to take place over the Memorial Day weekend, to Larry Everett, former Commander of the Legion who passed away last year.”This display is dedicated to Larry E. Everett for his inspiration and leadership as Commander of Voyle Martin Post 93 Orcas Island, from 2009 to 2011.
“His desire to honor and recognize those in our community who have served in the military is the inspiration behind this Memorial Weekend display, May 2012,” Baxter writes.
“Many items were discovered tucked away lovingly by families who were willing to share their beloved items to honor and remember their loved ones with our community this weekend.”
Everett’s widow, Kathy Everett said she is humbled and honored to have the display dedicated to Larry.
Beneath a photo display in tribute to Everett are uniforms representing the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard along with a telegram, special commendations, photographs, medals and a rubbing from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall with two photos of Orcas Island High
School graduates who lost their lives in that war.
Baxter says further, “There are many mementos out there that islanders would be honored to share. Beyond this special occasion, the opportunity exists for exhibits recognizing women in the military,
support organizations such as USO, American Red Cross and many other groups.”
The Legion will commemorate Memorial Day with a ceremony at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 28 at Mt. Baker Cemetery. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.For more information, call 376-4987.
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Margie
Thank you for this story. It means a great deal to all of those who contributed so this display was possible. Let’s not forget whom we are honoring and why.
The honor and thanks goes to all those who’s mementos are being shared during this Memorial Day weekend. Thank you to all who contributed to this very special and heartfelt occasion…..and always remember, “Freedom is not free!”
I saw the name Judi L Resch and wondered if she was a long lost friend of mine from Eureka, CA.
Is it possible for you to send her my email address? I would appreciate it very much. Thank you, Sylvia S. Nelson