Beech Tree News Network

VFW Post 5837 Auxiliary Honors Bernard Ladell LittleHawk Laughing

The VFW Post 5837 Auxiliary proudly selects Bernard Ladell LittleHawk Laughing or "Hawk' as their Veteran of the Year.

Born in November 1969 at the naval hospital in Ayuna Heights, Guam, Hawk has dedicated his life to service. On June 23, 1986, he headed to Marine Boot Camp.

After earning the title of Marine at Paris Island, SC, and completing a rigorous series of military schools—including sniper training and reco

renaissance—he served in major operations such as Just Cause, Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Provide Comfort, and Provide Hope. Despite a medical discharge due to shrapnel in his heart after 6.5 years, Laughing's commitment did not waver.

In his own words, reflecting on his recognition in the Marines, he said, "I have earned and received many medals that I prefer not to discuss as I was merely lucky to serve with many of the finest service members you could ever imagine."

Post-service, he has continued to serve the community's youth through volunteering with JROTC, Boy Scouts of America, high school football, and high school track. Through his Lifetime membership in Granville Allen VFW Post 5837, he embodies the Marine Corps values he learned, dedicating his life to supporting and uplifting other veterans.

His family is proud of his accomplishments. Hawk's roles as father, grandfather, uncle, and great-uncle are the highlights and joys of his life.

VFW Post 5837 Auxiliary Honors David Daughtery as Veteran of the Year

The VFW Post 5837 Auxiliary proudly selects David Daughtery as their Veteran of the Year. Born on April 4, 1952, in Salem, Indiana, David moved to Kentucky, graduating from m Western High in Louisville in 1970. In January 1971, he volunteered for the Marine Corps, completing basic training at Parris Island, SC, and Infantry Training at Camp Geiger, NC. David's musical talents earned him a spot in the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, and he trained as a Baritone Bugler at Field Music School, Parris Island.

During his Marine Corps service, he was stationed at Camp Smith, Hawaii, Kaneohe Air Station, Hawaii, and Camp Lejeune, NC. He was awarded the National Defense Service e Medal and numerous Letters of Appreciation from generals. He received an honorable discharge in January 1975. Continuing his service, David joined the Army Reserve as a

Combat Marksman Instructor, achieving the rank of Sergeant.

Returning to Kentucky, David worked in coal mines. He became a Certified Diesel Mechanic while volunteering for 20 years with the fire department and serving 15 years as an Emergency Medical Te

technician for Butler County. As a life member of the Granville Allen VFW Post 5837, David serves as post chaplain and official Bugler and performs honors for veterans.

His family, including daughter April and son David Jr. (DJ), share pride in his accomplishments. David's roles as father, grandfather, and great-grandfather are the highlights and joys of his life.

VFW Post 5837 honors Rovie L. Alford as Veteran of the Year.

Rovie L. Alford, born November 16, 1935, has lived a life of service and dedication. One of 11 children, he married Tessie "Elaine" Phelps on June 6, 1955, and celebrated 69 years of marriage. In 1954, instead of graduating high school, Alford joined the Air Force, where he was promised the chance to earn his GED, which was fulfilled later.

Alford attended basic training at Sampson Air Force Base in New York, followed by specialized training in airplane mechanics at Wichita Falls, Texas. During his training, he faced discrimination alongside a fellow airman but chose solidarity over segregation, a testament to his character. He received a promotion after completing his training in the top ten percent of his class.

He continued his training at Donaldson Air Force Base in South Carolina and worked on obtaining his private pilot's license. He was impressed by his commanding officer, who helped him earn his high school diploma from Butler County High School. Stationed in Frankfort, Germany, Alford also served in various countries, supporting allied forces during conflicts and earning a medal for his service.

 After his four-year service, Alford moved his family to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to attend the Spartan School of Aeronautics and Technology. He earned several licenses and worked nights to support his family. During this time, they welcomed another daughter, Diana Louise.

Alford then worked as an airplane mechanic for Eastern Airlines, moving frequently due to company policies. Despite this, he always prioritized his family's needs, ensuring they had good schooling opportunities and never had to change schools mid-year. He also took up the art of faceting gemstones, goldsmithing, and silversmithing in his retirement.

Rovie L. Alford's life is marked by his dedication to service, lifelong learning, and family. 

Even at 89, he remains active, reading daily, helping at the local VFW, and continuing to learn and build with his hands. His legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and love.