When Pfc. James Jacob Harrelson, son, friend, loved one, athlete, and Soldier of the United States perished in battle he left a hole in the hearts of his comrades, folks at home in Dadeville, and those anywhere who knew him.
Spanky came home yesterday. More than 100 friends and relatives gathered at Thomas C. Russell Field in Alexander City as he arrived on an Air Force C-21 Learjet. The honor guard from Fort Benning escorted him to a long grey limo. Members of the Alexander City Veterans Honor Guard, men and women from all wars, lined the tarmac with Old Glory.
Tonight he will say goodbye to family and friends at Radney Funeral Home and tomorrow ride to his hometown in Dadeville. Folks will gather at the First Baptist Church and celebrate his short but fruitful life with full military honors. In southern tradition, ladies will prepare a meal fit for royalty and folks will dine and enjoy fellowship. This common bond starts the healing process so necessary to carry on.
His final resting place is Hillview Memorial Park in Alexander City. For more than fifteen miles grateful citizens will line the highway and traffic will stop as Spanky traces the path of pioneers from historic Dadeville, to Jacksons Gap, across Lake Martin, and through downtown Alexander City.
I dont remember where I read it or who wrote it but its true. Only two people have willingly offered to die for me. Jesus, to protect my soul, and the American Soldier, to protect my freedoms.
Spanky, I offer a salute to a brother in arms and thank you for your sacrifice.
Travel well my friend.
Spanky came home yesterday. More than 100 friends and relatives gathered at Thomas C. Russell Field in Alexander City as he arrived on an Air Force C-21 Learjet. The honor guard from Fort Benning escorted him to a long grey limo. Members of the Alexander City Veterans Honor Guard, men and women from all wars, lined the tarmac with Old Glory.
Tonight he will say goodbye to family and friends at Radney Funeral Home and tomorrow ride to his hometown in Dadeville. Folks will gather at the First Baptist Church and celebrate his short but fruitful life with full military honors. In southern tradition, ladies will prepare a meal fit for royalty and folks will dine and enjoy fellowship. This common bond starts the healing process so necessary to carry on.
His final resting place is Hillview Memorial Park in Alexander City. For more than fifteen miles grateful citizens will line the highway and traffic will stop as Spanky traces the path of pioneers from historic Dadeville, to Jacksons Gap, across Lake Martin, and through downtown Alexander City.
I dont remember where I read it or who wrote it but its true. Only two people have willingly offered to die for me. Jesus, to protect my soul, and the American Soldier, to protect my freedoms.
Spanky, I offer a salute to a brother in arms and thank you for your sacrifice.
Travel well my friend.
