From Whiteman’s Legacy to Local Remembrance: Sedalia Honors Veterans This Memorial Day

As Memorial Day approaches, the City of Sedalia joins communities across the nation in pausing to honor the lives and legacies of the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces. Here in Pettis County, our connection to military service runs deep, rooted in both history and continued tradition.

One of Missouri’s most distinguished military figures, 2nd Lt. George Allison Whiteman, was born just south of Sedalia. A graduate of Sedalia’s Smith-Cotton High School, Lt. Whiteman became one of the first American airmen killed in World War II when Japanese forces attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. His bravery and sacrifice would later be immortalized when Whiteman Air Force Base, located less than 25 miles from Sedalia, was named in his honor.

Today, Whiteman Air Force Base continues to play a vital role in national defense as home to the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. But its presence also serves as a lasting reminder of the courage shown by those like Lt. Whiteman, and the many veterans laid to rest in cemeteries throughout our region.

Leading up to Memorial Day weekend, residents of Sedalia and Pettis County will come together to honor that legacy with a series of ceremonies and acts of service.

Saturday, May 17 — 11:00 a.m.
37th Annual Sedalia Chamber Whiteman Wreath Laying Ceremony at Memorial Park Cemetery

Saturday, May 25 — 7:00 a.m.
Volunteers will place American flags on veterans’ graves across local cemeteries:

• Highland Sacred Gardens: Voiture 333 40 & 8 and Troop 54 Scouts
• Memorial Park Cemetery: American Legion Post 620, Troop 61 Scouts, and JROTC
• Crown Hill Cemetery: VFW Post 2591, Troop 66 Scouts, and JROTC
• Following flag placement, all volunteers are invited to a breakfast hosted at VFW Post 2591, 29451 U.S. HIghway 50 in Sedalia

Sunday, May 26 — 2:00 p.m.
A Memorial Day ceremony will be held at La Monte Cemetery, hosted by American Legion Post 520.

Monday, May 27 — 10:00 a.m.
The community is invited to a Memorial Day ceremony at Crown Hill Cemetery, followed by a picnic hosted by Voiture 40 & 8 at Shelter House #2 in Liberty Park from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Monday, May 27 — 5:00 p.m.
Volunteers will return to retrieve the flags placed earlier in the weekend.

The City of Sedalia extends heartfelt gratitude to all veterans and their families, and to the dedicated volunteers who help ensure their service is remembered with dignity. From Lt. Whiteman’s legacy to the flags placed by Scout troops and local service organizations, we are united in remembrance, not only on Memorial Day, but throughout the year.