World War II Night held at museum in Florala

Published 11:00 am Sunday, May 26, 2024

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The Covington Region Honor Flight Committee salutes Ron Hargrove for hosting “A Night at the Museum” in April in Florala. The purpose of the memorable event was to raise much-needed funds for the upcoming Honor Flight, scheduled for this October.

Ron Hargrove welcomes attendees to the World War II – Night at the Museum, located on his property in Florala where he displays his spectacular collection of military vehicles and artifacts. The event, hosted by Hargrove, raised funds for the upcoming Honor Flight scheduled for this October. (PHOTO COURTESY OF JAN WHITE)

He gave those who attended a look back at World War II, as they toured his personal spectacular collection of tanks, jeeps, transport trucks, a motorcycle with side car, as well as a plane that flew on D-Day.

His museum includes displays such as a field hospital, tent with bunk beds, a portable chapel for worship services, and much more. There was a weapons demonstration with armament from various wars.

The evening began with a vintage aircraft flyover, followed by the presentation of the colors on horseback.

The Blue Anchor Belle’s Tribute to the Andrews’ Sisters featured WWII-era classic songs. (PHOTO COURTESY OF JAN WHITE)

The World War II Show featured a USO-type program that included impersonators of Bob Hope, General George Patton, and Blue Anchor Belles’ Tribute to the Andrews Sisters, singing the classics of the World War II era. There were a number of reenactors who traveled from around the country for the event.

U.S. Congressman Barry Moore gave a brief speech acknowledging the contribution of our veterans. He also stressed the impact of patriotism. A special display included a tribute to Covington County’s only Medal of Honor Recipient Rodney Evans. A photo of Rodney Evans wearing his military uniform and also his Medal of Honor were displayed.

A delicious BBQ meal, provided by Mr. Hargrove, was served to attendees.

“General George Patton” greets a World War II veteran attending the WWII Night at the Museum. (PHOTO COURTESY OF JAN WHITE)

In addition to Ron Hargrove, the Covington Region Honor Flight would like to thank the sponsors and everyone who purchased a ticket for the event. Sponsors at the General level include PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, Little Tire Hauling, Inc., Renee Day – World Impact Real Estate, South East Communications, Inc., Wright Brothers Construction, Inc., and Wyatt Sasser Construction. The Colonel level included Cadenhead Construction, John and Faye Vick, Ronny and Gayle Robbins, Southeast Gas, Johnny on the Spot, and Mechanical Plumbing Systems, Inc. The Major level included White, McClung, and Barber CPAs.

The Covington Region Honor Flight is a 501©3 organization. Contributions are tax-deductible.

Most of all, thank you to all the veterans who have served our country!

The Covington Region Honor Flight Committee consists of William Blocker, Emilee Gage, Sammy Glover, Patti Hughes, Cristin Murphy, Wyatt Sasser, and Greg White.