Three area World War II veterans were recognized by Governor Andy Beshear at the Capitol Wednesday for their selfless service and commissioned them as Kentucky Colonels.
During the service, Governor Beshear stated we can never do enough to thank these veterans who risked their lives and added he was honored to be in their presence and honor each of them as a Kentucky Colonel.
Among the three recognized included Sgt. Jim Ethridge, of Trigg County. Ethridge served from 1946-1952 during World War II and the Korean War. He was only 15 years old when he joined the Army and was awarded the World War II occupation medal of Japan; World War II victory medal; Korean War service medal with three France engagement services; Korean defense good conduct medal with two oak leaf clusters; unit citation United Nations service medal; presidential unit citation; and Korean president unit citation.
In addition, Staff Sgt. Henry Breithaupt, of Christian County who served from 1946-1967 was honored. Breithaupt served in three wars: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. After his service, he was a truck driver until his retirement in 1999.
Cpl. Elwood Richardson, of Christian County, was also honored. Richardson spent 21 months overseas in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations. He is entitled to wear the American Theater Ribbon with two bronze stars, Philippines Liberation Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, and the Victory medal. Richardson served in the Pacific in New Guinea and in the Philippines. He and his regiment were on their way to invade Japan when bombs were dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima ending the war. After the war ended, he assisted Bataan Death March prisoners of war prepare to return home. After discharge from military service, he worked in South Bend, Indiana, and eventually returned to Hopkinsville.
The title of Kentucky Colonel dates back to around 1813.
