Dr. Doug Given is well know for his excellent medical skills. Last Friday I saw another side of Doug. His second calling may well be as a storyteller. As is documented on this week’s front page, Doug appeared before the Braxton County Commission to follow up on an initial plea he made to have some type of permanent recognition for Brig. Gen. Kemp McLaughlin placed at the Courthouse. Doug gave a spell binding, although brief, account of General McLaughlin’s distinguished military career. I thoroughly enjoyed Doug’s tales of the General’s World War II excapades complete with humorous interjections.
In addition, I couldn’t agree more that someone with such notoriety as General McLaughlin should be honored in his home county. After all, in addition to an outstanding military career, he is credited with founding the Air National Guard in Charleston and Martinsburg. He died at the age of 101 in 2019 with a legacy that is beyond comparison. He should be honored in Braxton County.
In my opinion, by honoring him, we honor every man and woman who served in our military. It is a fitting tribute and long overdue. I commend Doug Given for taking up the challenge of getting General McLaughlin his just recognition.
Elimination Dinner
benefactors can apply…
The Braxton County Rotary Club has announced the date for their 2023 Elimination Dinner. The event, the organization’s largest fund-raiser of the year, will be held on Saturday, March 25 at Braxton County High School.
The club plans to again fund $10,000 in scholarships to BCHS graduates as well as select smaller grants to worthy charitable organization in the county. Any club or organization that would like to be considered should put their request in writing, along with how much is needed and what the funding will be used for. Request may be submit to any Rotary member. They may also be mailed to: Braxton County Rotary Club, P.O. Box 313, Gassaway, WV 26624. Email requests can be sent in care of; [email protected]. All requests must be received no later than January 31, 2023.
