Honoring a real war hero

Laurel Leader-Call: Honoring a real war hero
EASTABUCHIE — Members of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association came from near and far Saturday to honor a local Medal of Honor recipient who gave his life for his country during the Vietnam War.

The association, which was formed in July, joined forces with the Marine Corps for a special memorial service to honor Marine Lance Cpl. Roy Wheat of Moselle. Wheat was killed in action in 1967 and is the only Mississippian to be awarded the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War era.

A brief ceremony, including the laying of a wreath and a bugle rendition of “Taps,” was held at Wheat’s graveside in the Eastabuchie Cemetery.

“It is wonderful that they would want to do this for my father,” said John Wheat of Moselle. “I’m honored to have each and everyone of them here.

“I can’t forget these veterans,” he added. “May God bless all the Vets.”

Joe Pellerito, the associations public relations officer, said that since the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is new to the state, among the first things the group wanted to do was pay respects to fallen comrades.

“I am so proud to be here today,” said Pellerito. “Most of the members of the association are Vietnam War Veterans.”

Pellerito said he has been working on Wheat’s memorial service for about four months. He said he is thankful for the cooperation of the family, the Marine Corps League, Jones County Sheriff’s Department, and community as a whole.

“The sheriff’s department escorted us her today,” explained Pellerito. “The Marine Corps League is serving as the honor guard.”

Bruce Butler a member of the Commiskey-Wheat Detachment of the Marine Corps League played “Taps” during the ceremony.

“We just need to pay tribute to our fallen heroes,” he said. “I’m glad for this opportunity because I’m patriotic and I don’t want us to ever forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“A lot of people lost their lives for you and me to be able to stand here today,” he said.

Commander Royce Nation noted that Wheat is part of the namesake of the Commiskey-Wheat Detachment. “We are happy to be a part of this wonderful event,” he said. “We are also glad to see so many people, especially members of Wheat’s family show up.

“It makes me feel good that the family and others responded and are here today to see this wonderful honor bestowed on Lance Cpl. Roy Wheat.”