GAINESVILLE - Last summer Maj. Kevin Jenrette of Hall County was killed in Afghanistan; today the inscription of his name was unveiled on the Afghan War Monument at the Northeast Georgia History Center.
Jenrette's widow Shannon was at the dedication in the History Center's Freedom Garden.
"When it [Kevins' death] happened, it was my son's fifth birthday, so when his birthday came around [this year], that was a little challenging," said Shannon Jenrette. "Vacations without him are challenging...every day is really a challenge."
Shannon Jenrette expressed gratitude for the community support she and her children have received since June 4, 2009, the day her husband was killed near Kapisa, Afghanistan.
"It doesn't go unnoticed...not a single card; and if it wasn't for the support of the community, it would be a lot harder," she said.
Jack Frost, president of Memorial Park Funeral Home, was responsible for having Maj. Jenrette's name inscribed on the Afghan War Monument in the Freedom Garden. He said he and his wife became involved with the work of the Northeast Georgia History Center about the same time Maj. Jenrette was killed. Thus, he thought it fitting that he honor the soldier with the inscription.
Frost noted that his own travels to other countries have made him more appreciative of the American freedom.
"You really appreciate what the word 'freedom' means, and this particular garden represents, and is significant of what our lives are...we are free," said Frost.
Also on hand for today's dedication were Maj. Jenrette's children, Corey, 8, Brody, 6, and Megan, 2. His parents Ret. Col. Bill and Ursula Jenrette witnessed the dedication, as did other family members and friends.
Glenn Kyle, director of the Northeast Georgia History Center and Phil Hudgens, president of History Center's Board of Directors offered comments of appreciation for Maj. Jenrette's sacrifice at the dedication.
Monday
November 25th, 2024
10:14AM
