We wish to express our condolences to the family and friends of Willard Blair, a World War II veteran who passed away earlier this week at the age of 97. Services are scheduled for Friday (1-28) at West Funeral Home Chapel. Mr. Blair was one of the World War II veterans we honored this past summer during our Independence Day celebration. Here’s what was read then: 

Willard Blair was in the Merchant Marines during World War II.  They were instrumental in maintaining the supply chain for the U.S. armed forces and their Allies.  It was extremely dangerous due to the German U boat torpedoes and they sustained the highest casualties of any service.  Willard was on two different ships that were torpedoed, but he managed to be picked up.  During the first wave of the “D day invasion” on Utah beachhead, Willard was one of the volunteers to sail on one of the 22 block ships to be sunk as artificial harbors to facilitate battle operations.  He recalls taking heavy fire from German machine gun nests perched above the beach and remembers taking cover behind a large anchor.  Many didn’t make it up the beach, but he was one of the lucky ones and the rest is history. 

Congratulations sir, and thank you for your service.

From the office of Mayor Dale Janway