The Hall of Heroes is a special place

The Poplar Bluff Museum has tales about us, our family and our history. I want to tell you some of those tales found within the museum walls.

The “Hall of Heroes” was established in 2008 in the Kanell Hall Veterans Museum. Its purpose is to recognize and honor every Butler County citizen who ever served in the military.

You don’t have to be a combat veteran, you have to have only worn a uniform. All have served honorably. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, Coast Guard and Space Force. Volunteer, draftee, active duty, reserve and National Guard.

We are proud of you all. When you raised your hand and took an oath to serve the Country, you became an elite citizen, a modern knight who swore to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. Your photo will go up on the wall for all to see.

You didn’t serve? Did a family member wear a uniform? Bring in their photo.

Your children can proudly view your family legacy. How inspiring it is to see your brother’s picture next to his dad, grandfather, and his uncles. On that same wall they will be shoulder to shoulder with other heroes from the past, with Bronze Stars and Medals of Honor.

Keep looking at the wall and you might see your neighbors and classmates who you never knew served.

Looking for someone by name? There is a roster posted on the wall to direct you to the panel your veteran is displayed.

I guarantee you will leave with a lump in your throat.

Simply drop off a photo of your veteran at the museum, any size and shape. We will reproduce it and return your original. It will also be added to the video display playing in the main room of Kanell Hall.

The museum is handicap accessible and open from 1-4 p.m. every Sunday, free of charge, at 1010 Main St., Poplar Bluff (formerly the Old Mark Twain School). Tell them Mike sent you!

Mike Shane is a veteran, Poplar Bluff resident and board member for the Poplar Bluff Museum.