From left: Post Member Erik Choron, Dr. Jane Todd, Geraldine Bridges, Theresa Hume, Post Member Sean Martin, Post Quartermaster Mary Roberts, Post Commander Derrick Roberts, and Post Adjutant Larry Hume.
August 31, 2026 - VFW Post 8904 honored Iraq War veterans, including Larry E. Polley Jr., during a ceremony held Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Shelby County Veterans Memorial on the Center square.
"The Iraq War began March 20, 2003, and continued until August 31st 2010, so it's been 16 years since the end of the hostilities and it's our duty as fellow citizens and veterans to ensure that this piece of history and sacrifices made are never forgotten," said Larry Hume, Post Quartermaster. "Our gathering this morning is a small, yet heartfelt thank you to those American patriots who served."
Hume continued, "During the Iraq War 4,486 Americans paid the ultimate sacrifice, including Shelby County's own U.S. Army Specialist Larry E. Polley, Jr., in January of 2004. Larry graduated from Center High School in 2001, he was 20 years old when he was killed in action."
Mary Roberts, Post Quartermaster
In honor of Iraq Veterans, Post Member Mary Roberts placed the memorial wreath upon the Shelby County Memorial. Taps was then played as presented by VFW member Derick Roberts.
Derrick Roberts, Post Commander
Hume reminded all present the next observance is V-J Day on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at the Shelby County Memorial at 9am. Then, along with Shelby County first responders, the Post will gather on Friday, September 11, 2026 and hold a remembrance for the 25th anniversary of Patriot's Day commonly known as 9/11.
U.S. Army Specialist Larry E. Polley, Jr. (Click for obituary)
Polley's father, Larry Polley Sr. and his mother Lois. Photo from 2022.
