World War II Victory Day event set for August 13-14 in Guymon, Oklahoma

Recognizing the greatest generation and the announcement of the end of World War II, World War II Victory Day will be commemorated in Guymon, Okla., Aug. 13-14 with local World War II veterans as the guests of honor.

“We have located 39 World War II veterans who live in or near Texas County, Okla., and the majority of them will be participating. Our activities include a parade, free luncheon and a concert by the 77th Army Band, the Pride of Fort Sill, with other activities pending as word gets out about the special event,” said Roy A. Ehly, event chairman and World II veteran.

“The end of World War II is not a national holiday. We think it should be and are proud to be hosting an event in Guymon observing the day Japan’s surrender was announced thus ending World War II,” he said.

Some confusion exists over the official day with Sept. 2 designated the national holiday in the United States of America when the surrender documents were officially signed, and because of time zone differences Aug. 14 and 15 are the days in 1945 when the first surrender announcements were made.

Last year the United States House of Representatives with the Senate concurring passed a resolution in support of the second Sunday of each August as a recognized day, but not a national holiday, to honor the efforts of millions of veterans in bringing the war to an end.

In Guymon, the celebration will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Aug. 13 with a gathering at Guymon High School where World War II artifacts will be on display. The parade begins at 9:30 a.m. from the high school and will feature many restored World War II vehicles carrying the World War II veterans. The parade will leave from the high school and go down Guymon’s Main St. with a special viewing station established at Clark Auto Ranch for veterans’ spouses and family members.

World War II veterans will be honored at a luncheon served free to them and their spouses at Draper Ranch near Guymon.

At 2:30 p.m. the 77th Army Band Concert begins at Guymon High School.

On Sunday, Guymon churches will be recognizing World War II veterans during their individual services.

“The event is for any World War II veteran from Texas County and the surrounding area. We want all to be included as they are part of the greatest generation whose courage, dedication, compassion and self-sacrifice have inspired the following generations,” said Ehly. “Please call the Guymon Chamber of Commerce to be added to our list and to get more information. The phone number is 580-338-3376.

“These activities are free to our veterans and spouses thanks to many volunteers and organizations. Supporters of this event include American Legion, Panhandle Lions Club, Guymon Lions Club, VFW, Oklahoma Historical Society, City of Guymon, Guymon School Board of Education, Guymon Convention and Visitors Bureau, Seaboard Foods, Guymon Chamber of Commerce, Epic PCS and Epic Touch.”