Local Heroes: Honoring WWII Veterans at the Kanell Hall Veterans Museum
In a poignant reminder of bravery, the Kanell Hall Veterans Museum in Poplar Bluff honors the sacrifices of local World War II veterans, whose stories of courage and survival resonate profoundly today.
Ted Schalk, a torpedoman on the USS Little, endured a harrowing encounter during a screening mission when 30 kamikaze aircraft attacked. Severely wounded after being struck by a suicide plane, Schalk was thrown overboard but miraculously survived, although the ship sank minutes later with 30 crew members still aboard.
Bill Hicks served aboard the USS Wasp when a Japanese bomb claimed the lives of 200 men, including Hicks himself. Meanwhile, Fred Carr, fighting with the Army’s 77th Infantry Division on Hacksaw Ridge, experienced intense combat. After being wounded, he was abandoned by his unit amidst a Japanese assault but was rescued by fellow soldier Desmond Doss, who later received the Medal of Honor and inspired the film "Hacksaw Ridge."
As the war drew to a close, Vernon Barwick sailed into Tokyo Bay to witness Japan’s surrender, while Bill Hogg arrived from the Philippines. Both veterans symbolize the dedication and courage of Poplar Bluff’s sons.
The museum invites contributions from families of other local veterans to ensure their stories are honored as well. Located at 1010 N. Main St., the Kanell Hall Veterans Museum is handicap-accessible and offers free admission every Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to mention Mike when visiting, fostering a community of remembrance and gratitude for those who served.
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