By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Paris, Tenn.–It was standing room only for this morning’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of the 212th Engineering Co. at the Paris National Guard Armory.
The 212th has a long and illustrious history. First formed in September 1917 as Battery D, 114th 1st Tennessee Field Artillery, this unit deployed first to WWI, followed by WWII, other foreign combat zones, as well as to national disasters. It also has been utilized for numerous humanitarian missions.
Brig. Gen. Roland Parkhill of Paris was among a room full of service men and private citizens paying homage to the 212th this morning. Parkhill, who has had a lengthy history with the unit, said he didn’t think he’d be able to speak because he would get too emotional.
The anniversary was combined with the monthly Paris-Henry County Chamber Coffee.
Commander Nathan Browning recounted the achievements of the 212th, noting that it has been there in combat zones and for help rebuild communities at home and abroad in natural disasters.
Brig. Gen. Tommy Baker noted, “There aren’t too many companies that have 100 years’ worth of history. There is so much heritage here, so much history and the footprints of the 212th go all over this globe.”
Henry County Mayor Brent Greer noted that Parkhill has been “the heart and soul of this unit over the years” and recounted the history of the 212th and its “service to Henry County and the world.”
Greer said, “This community sends you off on your missions and welcomes you home.” He noted the sacrifices of the members of the 212th and their families.
“We have our arms around you”, Greer said.
State Rep. Tim Wirgau said it was a honor to be in the company of such dedicated servants. Also speaking was Sgt. First Class James Dougherty.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dr. Bradley White brought several TCAT students with him, all of whom are veterans. While at the Armory, they placed American flags at the entrance.
Photos: Brig. Gen. Roland Parkhill is greeted by City Manager Kim Foster, while County Mayor Brent Greer looks on; a large crowd was on hand; State Rep. Tim Wirgau. (McFarlin photos).
Brig. Gen. Roland Parkhill of Paris was among a room full of service men and private citizens paying homage to the 212th this morning. Parkhill, who has had a lengthy history with the unit, said he didn’t think he’d be able to speak because he would get too emotional.
The anniversary was combined with the monthly Paris-Henry County Chamber Coffee.
Commander Nathan Browning recounted the achievements of the 212th, noting that it has been there in combat zones and for help rebuild communities at home and abroad in natural disasters.
Brig. Gen. Tommy Baker noted, “There aren’t too many companies that have 100 years’ worth of history. There is so much heritage here, so much history and the footprints of the 212th go all over this globe.”
Henry County Mayor Brent Greer noted that Parkhill has been “the heart and soul of this unit over the years” and recounted the history of the 212th and its “service to Henry County and the world.”
Greer said, “This community sends you off on your missions and welcomes you home.” He noted the sacrifices of the members of the 212th and their families.
“We have our arms around you”, Greer said.
State Rep. Tim Wirgau said it was a honor to be in the company of such dedicated servants. Also speaking was Sgt. First Class James Dougherty.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dr. Bradley White brought several TCAT students with him, all of whom are veterans. While at the Armory, they placed American flags at the entrance.
Photos: Brig. Gen. Roland Parkhill is greeted by City Manager Kim Foster, while County Mayor Brent Greer looks on; a large crowd was on hand; State Rep. Tim Wirgau. (McFarlin photos).