| By Bob Weaver (Nov. 2001)
PART THREE: A CALHOUN HERO
VFW member Art Bell reveals new Bell Bridge sign
The "new" Bernard P. Bell Memorial Bridge (looking north on Route
16)
Veteran's organizations from Grantsville and Spencer participated in the
dedication of the Grantsville bridge Saturday, naming it the "Bernard P. Bell
Memorial Bridge," after the Congressional Medal of Honor recipient who was
born in Calhoun.
Color guard assembles on north end of bridge at Route 16/5
American Legion members from Spencer join Grantsville's VFW
5959
Del. Bill Stemple, a Vietnam Vet, introduced the participants in a ceremony
held at the north end of the structure.
Paul Whytsell, Commander of VFW Post 5959 of Grantsville, was an organizer
of the ceremony. He expressed his appreciation to the Spencer vets for
participating.
Post Commander Paul Whytsell, local VFW, helped organize event
Del. Bill Stemple welcomes assembly
A warm and sunny November day, Sgt. Lynn Gilbert reads Bell's
citation
The Grantsville Senior Center (CCCOA) had their Second Annual Veteran's
Day Celebration following the bridge dedication. "I feel honored to stand
before you (vets) today," said Mike Ritchie, Director of the center, and "honor
those who have served."
Large crowd attends Senior Center vet's recognition
Mike Ritchie serves large crowd at Senior Center
He announced the formation of the "Last Man's Club" for WWII vets. Local
veteran Von Yoak was the keynote speaker, who gave a reminder about
recognizing the flag and pledging allegiance to "our great Democracy."
Mr. and Mrs. Von Yoak. Yoak gave talk at Senior
Center
Tables throughout the center had displays of early military uniforms and
artifacts from the nation's major conflicts. A large crowd filled the center's
dining hall to share a buffet and participate in a program of honors. Honorary
certificates were given to veterans attending.
WWII Vet Denver Gandee of Spencer, spoke at the bridge dedication. Bell,
whose nickname was "Red." Gandee said he visited with Bell in Pt. Pleasant
on several occasions. "He often gave patriotic talks to groups, although he
rarely spoke of his own heroics," said Gandee.
Spencer resident Denver Gandee knew Bell as "Red"
"I ask him one time how he got out of Calhoun County, and he said he walked
out like everyone else," joking about the lack of transportation in the early
1900's. Gandee is well-known for his participation in the battle at the bridge
of Remagen, made famous by Ken Heckler's book and later a motion
picture.
A special event for Veteran's Day 2001
Part Three of Four
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