MARSHALL, Texas–A Memorial Day service, “A Time of Remembrance,” was held by East Texas Baptist University on Monday at noon in the Quadrangle on campus. Quinton Rogers of Marshall, a World War II veteran, was the guest speaker for the service that paid honor to those who have died in military service to our country.
Rogers, an alumnus of ETBU, spoke on his experiences serving in the Regular Army and the history of the war. He served as a mail clerk during World War II stationed in such places as England and North Africa.
“One of the saddest parts of my duties was bundling the mail of a soldier who had died.” said Rogers. “We would have to mark it ‘return to family, killed in action’.”
Rogers reminded those gathered that the United States had a total 16 million men in arms with over 400,000 killed during World War II. “We are free people today because of the sacrifice by those who have given their all, their life,” said Rogers.
ETBU President Bob E. Riley, who served during the Vietnam War, told the audience gathered, “Today is a day of memory and a day of sadness. Freedom is not free; it has to be paid for with a price, sometimes a very high price.”
During the service, Dr. Riley placed a memorial wreath at the monument located in the Quad dedicated to ETBU students and faculty who lost their lives in World War II. As the wreath was placed, Associate Professor of Music Dr. Doug Lockard played “Taps.” Dr. Virginia Boaz, Associate Professor of Music, sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Marshall Resident Albert Abraham was also recognized for his service during World War II. Abraham is an alumnus of the College of Marshall, the foundational school which later became East Texas Baptist University.
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