The Major George B. Erath Chapter (Stephenville) of the United Daughters of the Confederacy honored seven veterans on April 26.
“The UDC feel it is honor to thank our veterans for all they have done for our Country,” said Sheran Weible of the George B. Erath chapter. The ceremony had the added benefit of a black powder cannon which was fired in honor of the veterans service,. The cannon is privately owned by Charles Leatherwood of Lingleville, and was fired by Ronny Jennings of Dublin, who are members of the 2 nd Texas Frontier Camp 1904 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans in Deleon.
Eddie Cox of Comanche and Cliff Weible of Dublin, also members of the camp, helped to make the ceremony special by serving as escorts for female veterans.
“Our chapter is very appreciative to the S.C.V. for taking time out of their day to help the U.D.C honor these brave men and women who gave up part of their lives to keep our country free,” added Weible.
The Crosses of Military Service were given to Vietnam Veteran, Colonel (retired); Gary Elliot of Oklahoma City, who served in the U.S. Army, as a Huey helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War.
The Global War on Terror Crosses of Military Service were bestowed to Lt.Colonel (retired) William F. Pearman of DeLeon, who served in the U.S. Army; Staff Sgt Jamie R. Cole of Gustine, who served in the U.S. Army, and Staff Sgt Walker E. Cole of Gustine, who served in the U.S. Army. Lt. Colonel (retired) Warren Cate of Proctor received the Vietnam National Defense medal. The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal was bestowed upon Nuclear Submarine Machinist Jason Ward of Sidney who served in the U.S. Navy, and an Award of Appreciation medal was given to Seaman Aimee DeBord of Comanche, who served in the U.S. Navy.