Central West Virginian

   “Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps’ pollution.  No refuge could save the hireling and slave from the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave.” –Francis Scott Key

By Soran Kennedy
Reporter
  In honor of Memorial Day, the Mountaineer Military Museum, 345 Center Avenue, Weston, WV held their annual Vet-Together Saturday, May 26.
   The museum, owned by Barbara and Ron McVaney, was created upon a promise Ron made to the childhood friends he lost during their service.  
  “I’ll never let anyone forget you guys,” McVaney promised them.
   After 35 years of collecting military memorabilia, the McVaneys turned what was once a colored children’s school to the Mountaineer Military Museum where they showcase hundreds of pictures of those who have served our country, uniforms from each branch of the military and various tools, flags, and ammo used.
   Dr. Michael T. George of Buckhannon, WV started the day off by portraying Francis Scott Key, re-telling the story of the events at Fort McHenry that led to his writing of our National Anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner”.
   Dr. George is the founder and CEO of www.patriothistory.org. Their mission is to inspire people to embrace the values and characteristics displayed through the lives of our Founders. His presentations motivate all Americans young and old to emulate these hardworking individuals that became extraordinary leaders with honor, integrity, and character according to www.patriothistory.org.
   Following Dr. George’s presentation, Renee Warner of Buckhannon, WV sang our National Anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner” for a crowd of veterans, their families, and local visitors. 
   Aside from the attractions of the museum itself, Tom Virden, Weston, WV, Daniel Johnston, Weston, WV and Larry Moody, Alum Bridge, WV lined up their military vehicles in front of the museum for tours, starting with a 1955 Dodge Ambulance and ending with a 141 VI Continental tractor.
  For more information contact the Mountaineer Military Museum at 304-472-3943 or go online at www.mountaineermilitarymuseum.com. 

  CHARLESTON, W.Va. -Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has issued a proclamation ordering all U.S. and State Flags be displayed at half-staff from dawn through noon, Monday, May 28, 2012, in recognition of Memorial Day.
  "I'm proud of the men and women who have served our state and nation with honor and distinction," said Gov. Tomblin. "On this Memorial Day, I encourage all West Virginians to remember those who have contributed to our state's legacy of service. We are forever grateful."
  Gov. Tomblin asks all West Virginians to unite in prayer for permanent peace at 11 a.m. and to observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. to reflect upon the service and sacrifice of our military men and women.

By Ray Smith
Hello EVERYONE!!!!!!!
  I need to get more people to sign up and donate blood. I told the Red Cross that we would have 75 people signed up to give blood, I had to argue with them to get the staff and set up to go up to 75 people. 
  I know it no fun, but it saves lives. I have had several transfusions in my life and this is the way for me to pay it back for someone else who will be in need. So you n...eed to donate and help save lives, it might be you or a loved one.
  So please make your appointment online, sign up on facebook and we will message you or call my office at 304-884-7219 and I will put you in. Also you get a free T-shirt, $10 meal coupon and a big thank you!!!! Come on and show the Red Cross how Lewis County donates