Letter to the Editor: Alumni gave ultimate sacrifice

I am writing to bring to light a matter of intrest to the community and to the memory of three brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I’m aware that Newton High School’s Hall of Fame does not include the names of three alumni who were killed in action while serving in Vietnam: Sargent Ronald Vernon Wearmouth, Lance Corporal Franklin Daniel Schrader, and Sargent First Class Edward James Brue.

These men, who once walked the same halls as current students. They answered the call of duty and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy while serving in Vietnam. Ronald a Bronze Star for Valor recipient United States Army was killed on June 14, 1968. Franklin Daniel Schrader, a United States Marine was killed on Jan. 19, 1970. Edward James Bruce United States Army was killed on Aug. 12, 1972.

The purpose of a high school hall of fame is to honor individuals who have made significant contributions and brought distinction to the school. Surely, there is no greater distinction than to lay down one’s life in service to our nation. Failing to recognize these heroes in this way sends a disheartening message to our students and community about the value we place on their sacrifice.

Including Ronald Vernon Wearmouth, Franklin Daniel Schrader, and Edward James Brue, the Newton High School’s Hall of Fame would not only be a fitting tribute to their bravery and dedication but also serve as a powerful reminder to future generations of the true cost of freedom. It would demonstrate that their sacrifice is not forgotten and that their courage is deeply valued by the community they once called home.

Please join me in urging the Hall of Fame committee to remain committed to their current selections and take future necessary action to rectify this oversight. Let us ensure that these fallen heroes are appropriately honored and remembered within the halls of their alma mater.

We all stand on the shoulders of men like these.

Leon Pinkerton

Bonner Springs, Kansas