As leaders of the world gathered in Normandy on Friday to remember the D-Day landings, in north Blanco there was a similar gathering with the same mission. County Commissioners Paul Granberg, John Woods, and James Sultemeier, Mayor Chuck Homan and City Councilman Danny Ray, Kermit Roeder, County Inspector, the American Legion, and a variety of other folks came together to note the significance of that day 70 years ago when America began the campaign that would end with the surrender of Germany 11 months later. All were honored to be in the presence of several WW2 veterans who were in attendance.
The event was held at the Buggy Barn Museum Complex on N 281. It began with an invocation, the national anthem was sung by Judy Dorsett, which was then followed by the solemn moment in recognition of the fourteen Blanco citizens who paid the ultimate price during WW2. It was a time to acknowledge the sacrifice that Americans were, and are still willing to make, to defend freedom in the world.
The occasion also served as an opportunity to recognize Nell Krueger and Roy Byars for their tireless efforts at preserving and promoting the history and heritage of Blanco. Both were instrumental in obtaining artifacts from the USS Blanco County that are now on display in the WW2 museum. Mr. Byars, a WW2 veteran, has passed on, but he was represented by his daughters Patty Haas and Marilyn Mikes. Ms. Krueger spoke about how she was delighted to see how Blanco’s appreciation for its heritage was continuing thanks to so many of the folks who were there.
“Nell, this should show you that your vision is on the way to becoming reality,” summed up Dennis Moore, referring to Ms. Krueger’s constant advocacy for creating a place where we could all share in the appreciation of our community’s history. Following the formalities, attendees toured the WW2 and Buggy Barn Museums where the Moore family hosted refreshments in a setting that allowed for all to continue the occasion for reflection.
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