The Joseph E. Johnston Chapter 198 of the United Daughters of the Confederacy awarded four brothers from Athens with Military Service awards Saturday, March 29, 2014. The brothers are the grandsons of Jacob Leonard Kennemer, PVT, CSA who served in Co. B, Gilberts Co. 26th Alabama Regiment; and Co. B, 50th Regiment, Alabama Infantry.
Chapter President Linda E. Watson and Chapter Recorder of Military Service Awards Martha Ann Whitt conducted the bestowal ceremony. George J. Kennemer, Jr., PFC, US Army during World War II and Otis Elwyn Kennemer, SGT, US Army during the Korean Conflict both received the Cross of Military Service Award. A recipient of any of the UDC Cross of Military Service Awards must have served in and received an honorable discharge from, or currently be serving in one of the following: US Air Force, US Coast Guard, US Merchant Marine, US Army, US Marine Corps, US Navy, or the National Guard.
Thomas Vernon Kennemer, SK2, US Navy during the Korean Conflict and Alvin Wayne Kennemer, MM2, (E-5), US Navy during the Vietnam Conflict both received the National Defense Service Medal. Alvin was not able to attend, but his daughter Karla accepted the medal on his behalf.
The National Defense Service Medal is awarded to men and women who have served for a minimum of 90 days active duty that does not meet the Military Service requirements during the Korean or Vietnam wars. This particular award is also given to those who served in the Persian Gulf during Desert Shield/Desert Storm.
The bestowal took place at the Athens Convalesance and Rehab Center. Chapter President Linda Watson introduced Alabama State Representative Dan Williams, Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks, Alabama Division UDC Recorder of Military Service Awards Glendora James, and Division Honorary President Judy Blackwell. There were approximately 50 people in attendance.
By: Ali Elizabeth Turner
