A special mural dedication ceremony was held at Rose Cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27th to honor two World War II heroes from the Town of Rose. The event, organized by Mural Mania, celebrated the lives and sacrifices of John Thomas and Melvin Donald Putnam, both natives of the town and casualties of the war.
Mural Mania, known for its commitment to preserving history through community art, has painted over 50 murals in Wayne County since 2007. The ‘Heroes of Rose’ mural, depicting Thomas and Putnam, adds a significant piece to this collection. The inspiration for the mural was sparked by a news article about Thomas’s remains returning home after 80 years, and a subsequent discovery of his class photo in the Rose Community Center.
The dedication drew a crowd of residents and visitors, who gathered to pay tribute to these fallen soldiers. The event underscored the community’s respect and remembrance for those who served, ensuring their stories continue to inspire future generations.
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