10 years ago
* Memorial Day was formally recognized as a United States federal holiday, following the American Civil War, as a way to commemorate the United States soldiers that died serving in the war. World War II Sailor Bruce Bale, from Tapoco, was called into active duty in 1943, soon after graduation. Unfortunately, on Jan. 22, 1946, James Forrestal, Secretary of Navy wrote, “I am reluctantly forced to the conclusion that Bruce is deceased.” This was the result of the Japanese sinking the PT Boat 337, which Bales was on.
* The Robbinsville Black Knights traveled to Bessemer City for the second round of the 1A state playoffs against Hayesville’s Yellow Jackets. Robbinsville was off to a good start in the top of the first inning after Hunter Phillips led off the game with a single to left field. The game continued to the top of the fourth, with the Yellow Jackets leading 6-3. With no one on base, Chris Daniels hit a high drive to left center and the ball sailed out of the park for a solo home run. Sadly, Robbinsville fell in six innings, 14-4. The Knights finished the year 9-9.
25 years ago
* May 26 was declared Charlie Buchanan Appreciation Day by Graham County Commissioners, to recognize the 24 years of service that Buchanan had given to the Old Mother Church. The church was the first church, school and courthouse in Graham County when the church was established on May 3, 1872. The church was repaired from the foundation to the steeple because of Buchanan’s hard work, as he said, “the help of the good Lord and the people.” He had recently celebrated his birthday.
* The Robbinsville track team finished third at the Smoky Mountain Conference championship meet, with 89 points. This was a truly remarkable accomplishment for only 15 competitors. Anyone finishing first in an event was considered All-Conference. Six Knights earned those honors: Jeff Wojdylo, Bucky Ayers, Lee Howell, Patrick Nichols, Brian Gross and Coy Adams. The 800-meter relay team of Howell, Nichols, Gross and Myers took first place with a time of 1:31, setting a school and conference record for the event.
50 years ago
* Thousands of our country’s bravest and best men died in distant countries across great oceans – far from home – to preserve their country’s freedom. And others might have been joining the hundreds of prisoners taken by the enemy. As American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary marched to cemeteries with American flags to place upon graves to honor our heroes, many thoughts were sad and hearts, heavy. Pictured were Mayor W. L. Prince buying a “Red Poppy” from Ann Rogers, showing compassion and loyalty to all that have died for our country.
– Diane West