Going to the Dedication of the PFC Thomas Tucker Memorial

PFC Tom Tucker was from the rural community of Madras, Oregon. Three years later, you still see signs like this in the community. This is a community that has rallied together and promised to never forget. August 23, 2009, slightly more than three years after Tom's death, they unveiled a memorial statue to be placed in front of the new City Hall.

US Route 97 is a north-south highway running from the Canadian border to northern California through the middle part of the states.The Patriot Guard Riders and Oregon Veterans arrived in force. They lined the street holding flags and acted has crossing guards and traffic control throughout the event. Veterans and active duty troops were everywhere.

The Posting of the Colors was done by the Madras High School JROTC Color Guard. These young men were magnificent at their job - so respectful, so serious, so proud. The mayor, Melanie Widmer, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Jennifer Davis sang the National Anthem in a voice so sweet and powerful. Chaplain Rex Auker, USN, Ret. led the Invocation.

Foster Kalama, played 'The Spirit Within' on the flute. It was so beautiful. And, while he was playing, two hawks circled above. Tom Brown talked about the proud and strong lineage of Jefferson County Veterans.

Then, we were treated to a speech, "Why Memorials are Important" by Bob Maxwell - notice the blue ribbon at his throat. He is Oregon's only living Medal of Honor winner, and he spent his life as a teacher of the youth of Central Oregon. It was a moving speech.
Mack Gardner, LTC, US Army, Ret., read a poem called 'Save Them a Place.'

The statue was unveiled. The military, represented by dozens of uniformed troops, presented a drawing by Michael Reagan. He does portraits of fallen troops as a gift to families. Major General Raymond Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon, made the presentation.

The fund raising continues. They are selling bricks to honor veterans. The bricks will be the pavers around the statue when it is placed.

Tom's commander, Colonel Todd Ebel, US Army, made some Remembrance Remarks. He talked about the nobility of the American soldier and Americans... about our generosity, how we always reach out to people, just as Tom is doing in this statue.

The Benediction was from Pastor Jim Leach and the Bagpipes playing Amazing Grace were played by Dave Fischer & Suzan Jenson.

It was a memorable day.

Bricks are still available for purchase, if you would like to honor a Veteran or Soldier. They are $40. If anyone is interested, let me know and I will send you the information for ordering.