Leeds celebrated the nation’s 250th birthday with the unveiling of a mural honoring local Medal of Honor recipients.
The mural features U.S. Marine MSgt. Alford Lee McLaughlin (deceased), who was awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism in the Battle of Bunker Hill during the Korean War. He was awarded a Gold Star, the Marines' honor for receiving two Purple Hearts.
U.S. Army Air Corps B-17 pilot Col. William Robert Lawley, Jr. (deceased) was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during an air attack over enemy-occupied continental Europe in World War II. He was credited with saving the lives of eight crewmembers after his co-pilot was killed by a 20mm shell midair.
U.S. Army Air Corps B-29 airplane radio operator SSgt. Henry Eugene Erwin (deceased) was awarded the Medal of Honor while in a hospital bed in Guam during World War II. Known for 22 seconds that saved the lives of his entire crew, Erwin dragged an activated phosphorus bomb burning at 5,000 degrees to an open chute of the plane. He was gravely injured but survived after spending two-and-a-half years in the hospital and undergoing dozens of surgeries.
City leaders and veterans joined together for the mural's unveiling.
“This celebration wasn't just about looking back,” the City of Leeds shared. “It was about honoring those who served, celebrating the people who make Leeds special today, and inspiring future generations to carry that legacy forward.”
The three American heroes are displayed on the city’s new mural on 8th Street in Leeds. Dajo Films produced a video of the celebration.
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