MOH Clarence E Sasser, a quiet and humble man, was honored on Veterans’ Day 2010. He was memorialized in life-size bronze. His statue is in the 40−foot “Ring of Honor” Brazoria County Courthouse, Angleton, Texas.
The military memorial of MOH Sasser joins Tom’s “Gold Star Mom” statue there. Brazoria’s Ring of Honor Memorial honors veterans from all branches of the military.
Officials in Brazoria county were determined to honor one of their own. Thus, they shared Clarence’s story of outstanding bravery with Tom.
Tom was then able to meet Clarence in person. Clarence provided invaluable details that helped Tom create this memorable custom statue. Even the smallest detail of how Clarence modified his holster was incorporated into the bronze sculpture.
Mr. Sasser survived horrendous things in the Vietnam War. With incredible acts of bravery, he saved many fellow soldiers. CLICK HERE to read of Sasser’s acts of bravery and his citation.
“These memorials are dedicated in appreciation and deep humility for the sacrifices borne by our military and their families. They have our deepest love, respect and appreciation now and forever.” — Tom & Marcey White
John Bennett dreamed of honoring his brother, Medal of Honor recipient Pfc Emory L. Bennett. Fifty-five year later his dream was realized. A bronze statue of Emory was created. Through the generosity of donors to the Emory L. Bennett Foundation and with generous support from the city of Cocoa, Florida, it became a reality. They commissioned Tom White to ceate a monumental portrait bronze military sculpture to honor Emory’s sacrifice. The statue was dedicated in Riverside Park, February 2007.
“In the early hours of June 24, 1951, “two enemy battalions launched a ferocious banzai charge up the ridge line to dislodge the company…. The enemy pressed the assault with fanatical determination. Although wounded, Bennett maintained his I-man defense and, upon orders to move back, Pfc. Bennett voluntarily remained to provide covering fire for the withdrawing elements…. (He) continued to sweep the charging foe with devastating fire until mortally wounded. His willing self-sacrifice and intrepid actions saved the position from being overrun and enabled the company to effect an orderly withdrawal.”
For the above listed actions, Pfc Emory L. Bennett was posthumously presented the Medal of Honor on February 1, 1952. CLICK HERE to read the complete MOH citation.
In a split second, with imminent danger looming, what influences an individual to throw himself forward and, at the cost of his own life, save the lives of those nearby? What is that special quality that inspires heroism? Whatever that quality, Marine LCpl Kenneth Lee Worley had it in abundance.
He didn’t run away from his comrades that August 12, 1968, in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam. He was only 20, and he sacrificed himself for his comrades. LCpl Worley, USMC, was posthumously presented the Medal of Honor on April 20, 1970; that MOH citation reads:
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity…while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company L, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Division in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam. After establishing a night ambush position in a house in the Bo Ban, Hamlet of Quang Nam Province, security was set up and the remainder of the patrol members retired until their respective watch. During the early morning hours, the Marines were abruptly awakened by the platoon leader’s warning that “Grenades!” had landed in the house.
“Fully realizing the inevitable result of his actions (and) in a valiant act of heroism, (Worley) instantly threw himself upon the grenade nearest him and his comrades, absorbing with his body, the full and tremendous force of the explosion. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, (Worley) saved his comrades from serious injury and possible loss of life…. Worley gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Dottie & MSgt USAF Retired Bruce Salisbury, Director of Mount KIA/MIA Memorial, a 501(c)3 corporation first conceived of the idea of a statue of Kenneth. It was Bruce’s dream to have a life-size bronze memorial of Kenneth in his hometown of Farmington, NM. Thus, Tom was commissioned to create the clay maquette of the proposed life-size statue. Bruce has since passed on, however, others are still interested in having this project finalized. Call for details.
“These memorials are dedicated in appreciation and deep humility for the sacrifices borne by our military and their families. They have our deepest love, respect and appreciation now and forever.” — Tom & Marcey White
