And Kilroy Was Here . . . was there The Armed Forces Museum at Camp Shelby, MS was dedicated on 19 November 2005 Camp Shelby is one of the largest state-owned field training sites in the U.S. It was established in 1917 and was named for Isaac Shelby, a Revolutionary War hero and Kentucky's first governor. The museum plans began around 1985. The Armed Forces Museum Foundation started in 1989 to support the efforts to build this "world class" museum. The Mississippi Legislature eventually approved a $4.2 The museum building Click the image for a larger view. Maj Gen Harold A. Cross million bond issue to build the facility. In October 2001 and moved from a tiny WWII building that once served as a recreation hall. It is now more than 16000 square feet under roof, more than 17000 artifacts and many acres of outside displays. Perhaps the most moving part is the Medal of Honor Tower in the center. Medal of Honor recipients are honored with their profoundly stirring stories of sacrifice and heroism. Retired General Emmett Hudson "Mickey" Walker Jr. was honored at the ceremony as the driving force behind the establishment of the facility. The facility was named in his honor and a bronze plaque was unveiled. "It is only appropriate to dedicate this great facility to Gen. Walker. His service to his country from World War II to the present, and his dedication to seeing this museum become a reality, brings great credit to himself and this great nation," said General Woods as he introduced General Walker." This cause was always something that was near and dear to me, making sure that our servicemen and women were recognized for their efforts and contributions to our country," General, Walker's career began when he enlisted into the US Army in 1942. During WWII, he was awarded a Silver Star and a Bronze Star with a "V." Like so many, General Emmett Hudson "Mickey" Walker Jr. Click the image for a larger view. The National Anthem and Proud to be an American was sung by Amanda Jones. of the "Greatest Generation," he left the service in 1946 to resume his life. Again like so many WWII veterans he was recalled for the Korean War. In 1976 he was again recalled as Assistant to the Director, Army National Guard. He retired in 1986 as a full General. Ceremony Master of Ceremonies ...... B.G. (Ret) Scott Woods Invocation ....... Chaplain (Col) Grover C. Glenn III Posting of the Colors ... Mobilization Center Shelby National Anthem ............................ Amanda Jones Introduction of Guests ................... General Woods Introduction of .......Adjutant General of MS.......... General Woods Introduction of Gen. Walker Maj. Gen.. H.A. Cross Remarks ....................................... General Walker "Proud to be an American" ........... Amanda Jones Benediction .....................................Chaplain Glenn As a personal aside, it was a great honor for me to meet (albeit for a short time) and shake hands with Congressman Sonny Montgomery of Mississippi’s Third District, He served there for thirty years. In addition, he had a 35 year military career that began during World War II. He has always been known as a friend of the military, for our nation’s strong defense and as a leader in the fight for veteran’s rights. Congressman Sonny Montgomery Click the image for a larger view. Send Corrections, additions, and input to: WebMaster/Editor Visitors since June 6, 2000