The Montgomery County Commission on Veterans Affairs is honoring many “Fallen Hometown Heroes” with Montgomery County connections on a website created by the Commission. The tribute is especially notable as the County prepares to commemorate Memorial Day on Monday, May 29.
The website honors veterans who were killed in action in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War and the Global War on Terrorism (including Operation Iraqi Freedom / Operation Enduring Freedom / Operation Inherent Resolve / Operation Freedom's Sentinel / Operation New Dawn). The website includes photos and military histories of those who were either originally from the Montgomery County or who lived in the community after their service. The site can be viewed at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/fallenheroes.
“The Commission on Veterans Affairs solemnly remembers the County’s fallen service members who have died in service to our country since World War I,” said Wayne Miller, a Vietnam veteran who now chairs the County Commission on Veterans Affairs. “The Fallen Hometown Heroes website pays tribute to County hometown heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice We are eternally thankful for those who gave their lives in defense of the United States of America. May their bravery and devotion not be forgotten.”
Earlier this year, a plaque was unveiled at the Rockville Memorial Library, recognizing the name change from the original Rockville Library. The name change was instituted in 2010 at the request of Gold Star families—those who have lost a family member in U.S. military conflicts—and the County’s Commission on Veterans Affairs. The plaque is in the first-floor lobby, next to a digital display honoring the County's Fallen Hometown Heroes. The Fallen Hometown Heroes digital display honor residents killed in action dating to World War I.
“Memorial Day is a special day for honoring the men and women who lost their lives while defending our nation,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “We recognize the sacrifice they and their families have made. And we will never forget. I encourage all residents to explore this website and learn about our hometown heroes.”
Anyone can share the story of a friend or family member by completing a Google form or a PDF form. Be prepared to provide the following information:
- Service member or veteran's name
- Name of person submitting information and relationship to the individual
- Branch of service and rank
- Years of service
- When the service member served (WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, Global War on Terror or peacetime/other)
- Brief narrative about their service
- Connection to Montgomery County (where the individual currently lives, grew up, attended high school or college/university, etc.)
- Photos (preferably one during their service and one present day)
Visit the Commission on Veterans Affairs website for more information about their work.