Kosciusko County World War II Veterans in attendance at the 2019 Kosciusko County Historical Society Dinner, Oct. 16. From Back Left, Charles Garner, Jack Anglin, Robert Gast, Wayne Teeple, Richard Higgins. From Front Left, Philip Porter, Sterling Theobald, Paul Haney, Don Shively, Jack Horney, Edward Barrus.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Historical Society paid tribute to Kosciusko County World War II veterans at the Kosciusko County Historical Society Dinner Wednesday, Oct. 16.

The 11 WWII veterans in attendance were treated to a program, “Tribute to Our WWII Veterans,” organized and presented by Historical Society Co-Director Sally Hogan.

“We really appreciated the opportunity to have the vets honored who served in World War II and helped to preserve our liberty,” said Hogan.

The program consisted of Jerry Hogan providing vocals for songs of the period with Terry White accompanying on piano. Bill Landrigan and Michael Rees performed dramatic readings of news clips and letters from soldiers deployed overseas during WWII.

“We have done a small part here in having dinner and trying to honor the vets with songs and old videos from the time period,” Hogan said.

Footage of old newsreels that were shown in the now-defunct Boice and Strand Theaters during the period were screened with narration by Sally Hogan and music by Terry White. The footage depicted life in Kosciusko County during WWII, including county residents scrapping metal and rubber for the war effort.

“We hope everyone enjoys themselves and has a great time,” said Hogan.

The Kosciusko County Historical Society held their officer election as well, approving existing members to serve their respective one or three-year terms.