Historical marker dedication held Saturday for Williamsburg Vietnam War hero

Photo by TIMOTHY WYATT

A dedication ceremony was held outside the Whitley County Courthouse Saturday for the placement of a historical marker honoring and recognizing a Williamsburg native whose heroic acts during the Vietnam War led to him posthumously being awarded the Medal of Honor. The Kentucky Historical Society Marker details the efforts of United States Marine Corps Lance Corp. Joe Calvin Paul, who on Aug. 18, 1965, placed himself between his wounded comrades and the enemy and provided suppressive fire to allow the wounded to be evacuated. Paul was mortally wounded during the firefight and died as a result of his injuries the following day. A number of county and city officials were present and spoke during the ceremony. The dedication concluded with an act of Final Honors, consisting of a 3-shot volley and a playing of “Taps.”