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WWII Veteran Honored As Part Of Special County Event

    The Lake County Commission on Tuesday welcomed 5th Circuit Judge Brian Welke, who gave a military service-oriented talk at the beginning of the commission’s regular meeting.  Welke appeared as part of the county’s Pride In America Month celebration, speaking about local servicemen who served during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.
    Welke recently completed a book, “Boys, Just Boys” about the 423rd regiment of the 106th Infantry Division, which served at the battle and saw many of its members taken prisoner.  On Tuesday, Welke also recognized Lake County residents who participated in the battle, including the late Fred Parks of Eustis, the late Johnny Webb of Umatilla, and  John Beville of Leesburg, now 100 years old, who was present during Tuesday’s presentation.  In all, Lake County had 53 residents serve in WWII, according to Welke.
    Beville was read a special letter from commissioner Sean Parks, who represented the commission in recognizing Beville for his contributions to America, describing an ‘enduring gratitude and debt’ to Beville for his sacrifices.
    Welke’s appearance was organized by the Lake County Historical Museum, and he was introduced by Lake County Historical Society President Ray Powers.
    Pride In America Month is a program organized by the Lake County Commission designed to set aside time each July to recognize America’s positive contributions to the world and to recognize people who have contributed to the country’s success.