WAYNE DONATES TO VETERANS — Wayne High Veterans Committee representative Sandy Day presented a $1,000 check to members of the Jefferson County Veterans Association. Those taking part in the presentation included, from left, Day, George Harrah, Sergeant at Arms Tom Hutkay, finance officer Tony Phillippi, Fred Tarr, Michelle Hedgecoke, adjutant Barry Bardone and Commander Frank Santa. -- Contributed

SMITHFIELD — The Wayne High Veterans Committee donated $1,000 to the Jefferson County Veterans Association on Aug. 13 at the community events building situated on the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.

The committee’s project was begun several years ago by Connie Miro Koniske and Rita Dayton Butler, members of Wayne High School’s Class of ’68.

The women were dedicated to identifying and honoring students who attended Wayne High School in Bloomingdale who went on to serve in the military.

Committee members who have donated their time and talents toward researching the past students included Helen Sipus, Class of ’65; Veronica West Smith, Class of ’66; Sandy Hudnall Day, Class of ’67 and Ron Allen, Class of ’67.

Many hours were spent in local libraries, on countless Facebook pages and making physical contact to ensure a successful outcome of the project.

According to Day, scores of students were discovered.

A modest biography that includes their branch of service, years in the service and where they were stationed is attached to each profile.

When possible, a photograph was secured with the information. Each student is posted alphabetically on a display board.

The main criteria were to identify those who served during times of war, including World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

“We identified several who died during active military operations, whether from enemy fire, an accident or other combat-related causes,” Day commented.

Cpl. Fred McGee, a graduate from the Class of 1949, received the Silver Star for his heroic action on June 16, 1952, in Korea.

Through the efforts of McGee’s daughter, Victoria Secrest, JCVA member Barry Bardone and the late Sheriff Fred Abdalla Sr., McGee’s Silver Star was modified and elevated to the Medal of Honor in January.

Bardone attended the White House ceremony and donated the photos, along with additional memorabilia from the event, to the Wayne High Veterans Committee.

The JCVA will utilize the donation to assist county veterans in need and help with veteran projects and JCVA programs.

The Wayne High Veterans Committee project will be on permanent display in the town hall in Bloomingdale.