We Americans tend to admire our heroes. Movies, comic books and television are replete with examples. How about the real deal? Allow me to introduce you to a man who was born and raised in Monroe, North Carolina, who became known for his business acumen, as a civic leader in Cabarrus County, a Christian gentleman and family man who dropped everything on short notice to join the United States Army to fight in World War I. Sam Parker became the most highly decorated American soldier in World War I. This story is now past the century mark yet remains relevant to this day.
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Postscript Memorial Day 2021
Almost by accident, while (The American Legion Post 51 Concord, North Carolina Legion Riders and post volunteers) were replacing American flags on veterans’ gravesites at Oakwood Cemetery, we came across the headstone of Lt. Col. Samuel I. Parker. On the headstone was simply the letters “M O H,” his date of birth and the day he died. It occurred to all of us veterans that this war hero deserved more than a 22-by-9 inch “headstone.” We decided to do something!
Through the efforts of the Legion Riders at Post 51 and with financial support from the city of Concord, we began raising funds for “a proper monument” to be placed on the family site at Oakwood Cemetery (off Church Street in Concord). The monument will be dedicated Thursday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m.
Those interested in attending are certainly welcome. Anyone interested in contributing to this endeavor can send a check to: American Legion Riders, Post 51, 165 Wilshire Drive, Concord, NC 28025. In the “MEMO” “Lt. Coronel Samuel I. Parker Memorial.”
We thank you.
Jack Ward,
Chairman Legion Riders North Carolina
Past Department Vice Commander – North Carolina
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