by Kate Sanchez

There are few things as patriotic as honoring our fallen soldiers and their loved ones. For Joe Blair, daughter Judy Hall, and their family, patriotism is something in their blood, and it’s more than obvious every at every Memorial Day holiday and throughout the year.

 

Blair is a WW2 Veteran and for a long time was Commander of American Legion Post 31. For seventeen years, the now 92-year-old and his family would give the Memorial Day Address and honor the Gold Star Mothers at the annual Memorial Day celebration program. Passing such honors down through the generations, Blair’s great-granddaughter became involved in the laying of the wreath from age 3 until the time Blair was no longer commander. In an excerpt from Hall’s post on Facebook, she says, “I am so moved by all that Daddy has taught my children and grandchildren about the true meaning of patriotism.”


Blair is also responsible for over 300 flag presentations at Veteran’s funerals, as well as ensuring that flags remain on the graves of several family and friends, every day of the year. One of these being Harold Ray Baker, a US Marine killed July 21,1944 at the age of 18. While both were involved with the invasion of Guam, Baker never returned home to his loved ones. Every Sunday, Blair and Hall visit these sites to make sure the flags are still in place, and on Memorial Day, he places a red rose on each one. Hall adds that her father always says, “It’s the very least I can do.”

Deservingly so, Blair was one of the first six heroes to be inducted into the to the Wall of Heroes by VFW Post 9515 in 2015. Hero may be an understatement, but he’s certainly the kind that more need to idolize today. Thank you, Joe Blair, for your service to our country. Your patriotism is evident through your actions, and those who have learned these things from you. We are honored to have you as part of our community!