Legionnaires replace flag for two-time vet Brasher
By LESTER MURRAY news2@kilgorenewsherald.com

Marion Brasher accepts a new United States flag from (from left) Danny Brasher, Glen Eyman, Dolores Brasher, Jerome Denmon and Kenneth Gill.

Marion Brasher, 84, served both in World War II and in the Korean War in the United States Army and an American Flag waves proudly outside his Kilgore home.

That flag, as happens to us all, is worn with age. Members of the American Legion decided to surprise Brasher with a brand new flag to replace his worn one.

Jerome Denmon, adjutant, Glen Eyman, vice commander and Kenneth Gill, commander, of American Legion Post 280 went to Brasher's home on Thursday to present him with a new flag.

With tears in his eyes, Brasher accepted the flag. While members of Post 280 raised the flag, friends and family sang the Star Spangled Banner.

Brasher enlisted as an 18- year-old in March, 1943. He completed his basic training in Ft. Lewis, WA, went on to do his desert maneuvers in Portland, OR. and tank training in Ft. Knox, KY.

He served for three years in Germany and was discharged in 1946, but when the Korean War broke out Brasher was called out again and served another eight months.

A tank driver in both wars, Brasher received a disability when he suffered a hearing loss from artillery fire in Korea.

Brasher lives at 407 Beckley with his wife, Dolores Brasher. Marion is retired from Kilgore Ceramics and suffers from congestive heart failure.

The Brashers have four children, Danny Brasher, a Smith County Sheriff 's Deputy, Pat Murrey who lives in Savannah, GA.; Donna Landers, who lives in Florida and Jeannie Whitsell, who lives in Indiana.

The Brashers are members of Christ the King Catholic Church.