French historians honoring Red Oak vet at service

RED OAK — All Montgomery County veterans and one Red Oak man specifically will be honored at a special service Friday led by two French historians.

Lionel Humbert and Philippe Esvelin will be coming to Red Oak Thursday, March 1, and touring the community in memory of the Montgomery County National Guard.

A Special Memorial Walk from the Courthouse to the Old Armory (Fifield Furniture) will take place Friday, March 2, from 8:30-9:30 a.m., and weather permitting, there will be fire truck rides courtesy of Firehouse Restaurant.

At 10 a.m., a special dedication ceremony at the Evergreen Cemetery will take place at the gravesite of Lt. Owen C. Hawkins, hero of Company M from Red Oak.

Humbert will be bringing French soil to place on the grave, along with a stone marker. The History Center will open at 12:30 p.m., that same day for programs, exhibits and activities.