Paris, Tenn.–Henry County High School Head Football Coach Josh Wolfe was honored Saturday as the first black head football coach for HCHS during the Juneteenth celebration organized by the Paris/Henry County Minsterial Alliance.
Coach Reggie Thompson introduced Coach Wolfe, while Earl Kendall presented the award. Coach Wolfe told all youth to never let anyone tell them what they can’t do. They belong in every room, on every field, and at every table, he said. He stressed not allowing others to keep you from achieving your goals.
City Commissioner Sam Tharpe presented Kendall with the Harriett Tubman Freedom Award. Kendall said he never looked at himself as doing anything great, he just wanted to do what was right. He thanked all of his past students for being a part of his life.
The family of the late Jean Palmer also was recognized for her accomplishments during WWII as a member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion Women Army Corps (WAC). Jean Palmer recently received a Congressional Gold Medal. Palmer served two terms on the Henry County Commission and was the first woman and the first African-American on the commission.
The Juneteenth celebration was held at Ogburn Park and included line dancing, kickball, bounce houses and other activities.
Photo by Jammie Adkisson.