A Day to Remember in Centralia

For most of us, Memorial Day marks the beginning of a season of summer fun. But don’t let the real meaning of the holiday get lost amidst the barbecues and beach sand. Memorial Day – originally­ called “Decoration Day” – unofficially began in 1865 as a way to honor fallen Union soldiers of the Civil War. In fact, because of lingering resentment over the war, many Southern states did not observe the holiday until after World War I (they opted for their own Confederate Memorial Day). Memorial Day has since became an occasion to honor fallen soldiers from all wars after WWI. You can find a listing of those from the community who have made the ultimate sacrifice below. Honor them with the traditions of this special holiday:

-Fly the flag at half-staff from dawn until noon, local time.

-Participate in a national “moment of remembrance,” which occurs at 3PM, Washington DC time.

-Place flags on the graves of war dead.

Centralia Area Casualties of War ...
(Please send additions or corrections for the lists below for Centralia to info@americantowns.com)


Vietnam War
Robert William Harris
Billy Dale Jackson
John Alan Abrams
Mickey Ray Grable
John Michael Wike
Richard Earl Githens

Korean War
Ahlers John Paul


World War II
Click here for a database of local soldiers killed in World War II