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T.I. Museum Honors Military Service

Story Published: Jul 11, 2012 at 6:16 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 11, 2012 at 6:16 PM EDT

Preserving Clayton's history and remembering the military service of the people from there go hand in hand.

"This is the community. These are people that have served the community; fought for freedom for this country. They're an intricate part, their families are an intricate part," said Tom Humberstone, board president for the Thousand Islands Museum in Clayton.

It's the central theme of a collection on display now at the museum.

Personal artifacts, medals, photos, letters and more represent Clayton-natives' service during almost every American conflict dating back to the civil war.

"People are touched. The soldiers that come in from Fort Drum now are amazed when they see it and I think they're honored. I hope they're honored," said museum board secretary Rae Patterson.

It's a mission that hits very close to home for Humberstone.

"Those that served in the Vietnam era were almost hated," he said.

Humberstone says he never wants that to happen to any veteran ever again.

That's why this display is so important.

"It would be nice if we could always remember what they did and hope that they never have to do it again," said Patterson.

The collection started about a year ago when the American Legion was looking for a more public place to display Clayton's World War II honor roll.

It quickly grew from there.

"A lot of families in this town contributed a lot," said Patterson.

If you have something to add to it, you can call the museum at (315) 686-5794 to make arrangements.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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