The Men’s Network of Community Baptist Church of Greater Milwaukee held its first “Men of Grace Banquet” at the Four Points Sheraton in Brown Deer on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Eighteen senior legends were honored and recognized for their community and military service. The honorees were all 90- years-old and older. Ninety-year-old, Reuben Harpole was the youngest among the group and Vernon Townsend was the oldest at 104-year-old. More than 300 people attend the celebratory event. This historic event acknowledged 14 honorees who were veterans that participated in the Korean War and World War II. Although the United States military units were segregated during World War II, these decorated men achieved honor in spite of discrimination and racism. The following honorees are Reuben Harpole, 90; JM Sutton, 9; Rev. Dr. Russell Willamson, 91; Donald Jefferson, 91; Alex Barber, 92; Charlie Weddle, 92; Rev. Eugene Wright, 92; Mason Bullock, 93; Ted Newby, 94; Lawrence Taylor, 94; Lester Britt, 94; Plural Thomas, 94; Thomas Morgan, 95; James Brown, 96; William Wattleton, 96; Dr. William Finlayson, 100; and Vernon Townsend, 104.
The Men of Grace program was the brainchild of Michael Staples, of Community Baptist Church. The keynote speaker was Rev. Dr. Demetrius K. Williams, and closing remarks were offered by Men’s Network co-founder Michael Staples.
