NORMAN — Lee Freeman served in the United States Marine Corp from 1968 to 1970 during the Vietnam War.

During battle, his platoon was hit by a mortar with Freeman injuring his hand. Under attack and overrun, Freeman didn’t even know he’d been hit. For his bravery — and injury — he received the Purple Heart last year.

The small town of Norman in the northern part of Richmond County is now officially a Purple Heart town. On Monday, residents and community members from other areas — including Ellerbe, Derby, Windblow and Candor — gathered to pay tribute, not only for those with Purple Hearts, but all those who have fought and continue to fight protecting freedom.

“My dad was a veteran of World War II and was shot by Germans,” said Norman Mayor Kenneth Broadway. “I started this before I was on the town council.”

A rousing rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” was performed by the trio of Larry Johnson, Stacy Branch and Stacy Shook — who make up Potter’s Will.

Afterwards, Navy veteran Douglas Walker lit five ceremonial candles with each one representing service men and women who fought in each war — World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War and those serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and other present-day conflicts and peacekeeping missions.

For Freeman, and many other veterans, Monday’s cookout was a chance to honor those from a bygone time.

“It means a lot to me,” he said about Norman hosting a Memorial Day service. “There’s a lot of other guys that have been forgotten about.”

Reach reporter Matt Harrelson at 910-817-2674 and follow him on Twitter @mattyharrelson.

Matt Harrelson | Daily Journal Retired U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Douglas Walker lights five ceremonial candles, representing those who have served and currently serve, during the town of Norman’s Memorial Day program Monday.
https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/web1_DSC_0983.jpgMatt Harrelson | Daily Journal Retired U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Douglas Walker lights five ceremonial candles, representing those who have served and currently serve, during the town of Norman’s Memorial Day program Monday.

By Matt Harrelson

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