World War II, Korea veterans honored during Marion County Memorial Day ceremony

OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) – Military service members who died serving their country were recognized across North Central Florida for their bravery this Memorial Day.

A ceremony honoring the fallen heroes was held at Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park.

World War II veterans Robert Anderson and Howard Mautner, alongside Korean War veterans Al Merrill, Walter Lane, and Ralph Mueller were presented coins and certificates for their service.

A sixth award was accepted on behalf of Korean War veteran Charles Barrack, who passed away hours before the program.

“Life has been very good to me. I’ve been blessed in many, many ways,” said Mautner. “I’m glad to be here and actually I am honored to be here, I’m fortunate to be here, and looking forward to it very much.”

The men were given awards by Marion County Commissioners Michelle Stone, Kathy Bryant, and Matt McClain. Plus, Sheriff Billy Woods, Charles Whitehead with Veterans Services, and Director David Hill from Congresswoman Kat Cammack’s office.

Leaders also acknowledged those who served during the Vietnam War and the Gulf War.

“It went pretty well, I’m glad all the people that was here came out,” said Johnny Burns, Vietnam War Veteran. “They need to show our veterans a lot more pride and attention to us.”

Burns says it’s important to keep their stories alive.

“So they know the history of the military and what it is we go through being the military because everybody just about volunteers for it, we don’t have a draft anymore like we did in ‘73 so it’s all voluntary service,” he said.

The program’s keynote speaker was Colonel Janet Horton. Her speech was followed by rifle salute and taps from the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard.

Services for veterans in Marion County can be found here and here.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.

Copyright 2024 WCJB. All rights reserved.