HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — A World War II veteran's son told Channel 2 Action news that he wants to finish what his father started by having his grandfather's remains brought home from where he was killed in the war.
Channel 2's Craig Lucie traveled to McDonough to the American Legion Post named after the war hero. His grandson told Lucie that he's never been able to visit his war hero grandfather's grave site.
“One of the things that struck me is no one has been to visit his grave. Not a citizen from Henry County or member of his family has been, and it hurts my heart that a veteran soldier over there was never given a proper thank you for what he has done,” said Henry County Commissioner and U.S. Air Force veteran Blake Prince.
Prince is joining American Legion Post 516 to bring the war hero home. %
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Post 516 is named after Henry County resident Willie B. Hatcher, who left behind his pregnant wife when he was killed in the line of duty in the Philippines on Nov. 1, 1944.
“Mr. Hatcher was the first Henry County citizen to fall during World War II. We need to honor him by giving back that sacrifice," Prince said.
Prince has joined other veterans for charity motorcycle rides to raise money to bring Hatcher's remains home.
“It's our opinion that we would like him brought back here to honor him like we have for a long time with this building, and now we have the opportunity to bring his remains back so his family and those of us can appreciate that fact that he served, died and now his remains will be close to home,” Army veteran Douglas Cloud said.
Hatcher's grandson Patrick Hardy Senior told Lucie over the phone: “My father started it all and this is what he really wanted. I think it's a great idea. He was a United States soldier. He's buried in the Philippines and I have never visited his grave site because he's buried in Manila,” Hardy said.
They have raised $2,500 so far, but they need $10,000.
For those interested in donating to the fund, please contact the Willie B. Hatcher American Legion Post 516 at 678-782-5466 or info@wbhlegion.com or log on to www.wbhlegion.com.
Post 516 is located at 122 Legion Road. in McDonough, Ga., 30253. Checks can be made out the American Legion Post 516 and earmarked for the Willie B. Hatcher fund.