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Organizers plan Oct. 26–28 events in Marion to honor Buffalo Soldier Gerald Dixon
Summary
Organizers announced a weekend of events culminating in a committal service to move Gerald Dixon and his wife to the veteran cemetery after the U.S. Army overturned century-old convictions; they seek underwriting and community support for disinterment and celebration events.
Speakers at the Sept. 16 Grant County meeting described research that uncovered the life and service of Gerald Dixon, a Buffalo Soldier whose 1917 court-martial convictions were vacated and whose discharge status was upgraded in 2023.
Mallory (an organizer) and City Councilman Eric Marshall detailed a planned weekend beginning Saturday, Oct. 26, with a public event at Marion High School that will feature a film screening (the movie “The 24th” or a PBS documentary) and invited national guests and a film director. The organizers said they will host a mixer that evening and a committal service on Monday, Oct. 28, to move Gerald and his wife Frances from the Estates Of Serenity cemetery to the Veterans Cemetery.
Mallory said the Veterans Administration informed organizers they could conduct a committal service at the VA but that disinterment costs were estimated at about $6,000; local supporters and the community foundation have already pledged funds and in-kind services (including a funeral director offering services and a $1,000 pledge). Organizers said they are working with national preservation partners and expect statewide and national interest.
The board expressed support and suggested preparing a proclamation close to the event date. Organizers asked the county for underwriting and logistical support; county staff and community foundations have already helped locate grant funding.
Next steps: organizers will circulate flyers and fundraising information and return to the board closer to the event for any formal proclamations or county assistance.
