American Legion offers to fund courthouse veterans display; commission tentatively approves space

Clayton Jean Webb, representing the local American Legion post, asked the commission for permission to install a framed flag and veterans’ photographs in the courthouse and offered to pay for framing and installation.

"It's to help veterans in all aspects of, you know, those that have served," Webb said, describing the post’s interest in honoring veterans and its willingness to fund the work. Webb suggested a framed 48‑star flag currently in the Legion’s possession or a folded-flag case and said the post would collect and prepare photographs and other materials for display.

Commissioners discussed possible locations and suggested a dedicated wall just inside the courthouse entrance, noting three current existing wall spaces (above the bench, by the water fountain and the wall near the former Christmas tree). One commissioner offered that the Legion could use one of those spaces and expand if needed. Commissioners also suggested Webb coordinate with local veteran contacts such as Randall Knight, the fire district chair, to collect names and photos of county veterans.

The commission did not take a formal vote to transfer custodial authority for the wall but agreed informally to the concept and asked Webb to return with a plan and a list of names to ensure the display would focus on Rich County veterans.