Bill Carey

Bill Carey

Behind Franklin High’s Wall of Remembrance Honoring the Young and the Brave

Recently, I stumbled upon something truly remarkable in the hall of my son’s school in Williamson County: Franklin High School's Wall of Remembrance. This poignant tribute honors alumni who lost their lives in military service, including those from the all-Black institutions Franklin Training School and Natchez High School that existed before integration.

The wall features 33 framed profiles, celebrating the lives of veterans from conflicts spanning World War II to Iraq. Each frame not only showcases a photo but also provides a brief narrative of their military contributions.

As a veteran, the depth of this Wall of Remembrance resonates deeply with me. I had the privilege of discussing this project with Lt. Col. William Hoover, who spearheaded the initiative when he led the JROTC program. His collaboration with the staff at the Williamson County Archives was instrumental in unearthing the incredible Tennessee history surrounding these alumni. This effort is a model for other high schools to emulate.

         Unearthing Unknown Tennessee History

Some of the stories memorialized on the wall offer profound lessons about sacrifice and perseverance:

- Capt. Silas Carlisle (Class of 1932) is the earliest graduate honored, while Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew Bergman (Class of 2008) is the most recent.

- A striking fact is that 13 alumni died in military service in 1944 alone, with four more lost in Vietnam in 1966. 

- Among the 33 men, 29 were enlisted personnel, and the highest rank represented is Maj. James Conway, a special forces officer missing in action since April 1966.

Some narratives are particularly haunting. Sgt. Mack Terry (Class of 1939) was a prisoner of war in Japan; his family received news of his fate only after years of uncertainty. Reedy Sears, another 1939 graduate, gained recognition in the local press for his athletic prowess before tragically perishing as a B-17 radio operator over Germany.

The Wall also includes Petty Officer 2nd Class James Harper, who was one of approximately 800 crew members lost when the USS Franklin was attacked in 1945. His mother reflected on his determination to serve, highlighting the strength of will that many of these men embodied.

                 The Vietnam War and Its Context

The youth of the veterans who died in Vietnam is particularly striking. Names like Spc. John Woods (19) and Pvt. Charles Hardison (19) serve as sobering reminders of the war’s toll. Notably, during this era, Tennessee's public school system was segregated, but the military was not. Four of the nine alumni who died in Vietnam were from Natchez High, underscoring a complex layer of "unknown Tennessee history" regarding race and service.

Pvt. James Cunningham (Class of 1964) died while aiding his commander, exemplifying valor in the face of adversity—despite the systemic barriers he faced throughout his education.

            Creating a Legacy of Remembrance

Hoover initiated the Wall of Remembrance about 15 years ago as part of Franklin High’s centennial celebrations. The project was driven by a desire to honor living veterans while ensuring that the legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice would not be forgotten. With help from the Williamson County Archives, Hoover was able to gather extensive information and photographs, bringing the wall to life.

It took several months to compile, culminating in a dedication ceremony attended by family members, widows, and children of the honored veterans. Hoover acknowledges that there may be names still missing, and if any overlooked individuals are identified, they will be added to the memorial.

     How Other Schools Can Honor Their Veterans

Franklin High's Wall of Remembrance serves as an inspiration for other schools to create similar tributes. A project like this could foster a sense of community and history among students. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Community Outreach: Announce the initiative through local media and social platforms to engage the community in identifying graduates who served.

2. Utilize Archives: Local archives can be treasure troves of information. For instance, the Williamson County Archives houses extensive files on local veterans.

3. Research Tools. Websites like Fold3 and the Tennessee State Library's digital archives are invaluable resources for uncovering records and photographs.

4. Historical Context: Consider the historical landscape of your area. Many current high schools have deep roots in local history, often connected to institutions that once served different demographics.

5. Incorporate Diverse Histories Ensure the inclusion of all community members who served, highlighting the incredible and often "unknown Tennessee history" that reflects a broader narrative.

Creating a Wall of Remembrance not only honors those who served but also educates current students about the sacrifices made in the name of freedom. By sharing these incredible Tennessee histories, we ensure that the stories of our veterans continue to inspire future generations.

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