A Veterans’ Day Remembrance

A Veterans’ Day Remembrance

As recalled by Ken Partridge, Bishop, CA Autumn 2024

Ken Partridge, life-long resident of the eastern Sierra, was a combat medic in Korea in 1951, and had chance to nervously meet, unannounced, a two-star general, on an inspection team. The general came into the tiny barracks room (8X10 feet), and Ken could only invite him to sit next to him, after the initial meeting.

“Where are you from, son?” the general asked Ken.
“Independence, California,” Ken answered.

It’s a Small World, Afterall….

It turns out that the two-star general was born in Independence, CA, and the two military colleagues exchanged information, phone numbers were handed to Ken, with the reassurance from Singlaub, if Ken needed anything, to call. Years later, the two-star general, John K. Singlaub reminded Partridge about his “favorite aunt” in Independence, on Memorial Day. “By golly,” Ken said. “It was much appreciated.” Partridge had gone to the cemetery in Independence to pay his respects during Memorial Day, and this memory stuck with Partridge all these years later.

Major General Singlaub (1921-2022) had the rank of a two-star Major General, and was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal (2), the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, two Air Medals, and the Purple Heart, twice. Singlaub was also a founding member of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and an officer in the Office of Strategic Services. Singlaub was one of the last commandos to serve in special operations in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.

*Veterans’ Day is November 11, and ceremonies take place at 11 AM, at cemeteries throughout eastern California. Big Pine, CA will honor veterans at the Veterans’ Corner, at 11 AM. Bishop’s services take place at the Pioneer Cemetery at 11 AM. If you are unable to attend a ceremony, please remember to take a moment of silence, on 11/11/11 AM, to say a “Thank you for your service.” Remember to put your American flags out, and thank any veterans in your life, for their honorable service to our country, here and abroad. CAR