More than 140 people turned out Saturday to help the Johnston Historical Society honor a local World War II hero. Paratrooper Emery O. Picotte was 23 when he was killed during the Battle of the Bulge in January 1945. But he was never forgotten by family or friends back home in Johnston.
His nephew George Picotte, who was only 7 when his uncle died so far from home, was determined that he be recognized for the ultimate sacrifice he made for his country. Before George Picotte died in December at the age of 87, he left a special request.
A long-time member of the Johnston Historical Society, Picotte had generously funded the flagpole and monument that stands at the entrance to the society’s museum on Putnam Pike. He wanted both dedicated in memory of his late uncle.
And the historical society did just that Sunday with a formal ceremony outside the society’s museum where the flagpole stands. Speeches were given and salutes raised, and a memorial wreath was hung on the flagpole. Also, Emery Picotte’s name was engraved on a marker at the base of the flagpole along with the inscription, “Land of the free, home of the brave.”
–Staff Writer Barbara Polichetti
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