March 25, 2010: Senator Smucker participated in a special
ceremony honoring the late Captain Edward A. Davis, a retired US Navy pilot.
Captain Davis was installed on the "Distinguished Veterans Wall of Honor" at the
Lancaster AMVETS Post #19. Ms. Karen Davis, wife of Captain Davis, accepted the
award on behalf of her husband who passed away 3 years ago.
Captain Edward A. Davis honored us in many ways – his exceptional
service, his inspirational approach to life, his stirring presence, once he
chose Lancaster as an adopted home.
Without question, he deserves a prominent position on the Wall of
Honor.
Through his actions and his words, Captain Davis defined honor.
Heroism. He was not comfortable wearing the term, but it surely
applied. Not many fly 57 combat missions, as Captain Davis did. Not many
could survive a brutal seven and a half years of captivity in the infamous
Hanoi Hilton, as Captain Davis did. Few are as decorated as he was.
Optimism. Here was a man who could easily have regretted that which he
suffered and that which he lost. Yet he did not give that impression. As he
recounted his return, when he first saw the flag, he knew the ordeal was
worth it.
Never give up attitude. We may never fully comprehend why terrible
things happen in this world, but Captain Davis’ determination to survive was
certainly redeemed over a life full of purpose and impact.
Openness. As we found with the World War II veterans, many are
reluctant to talk about their war experiences. Yet, there are many lessons
for us in their experience, much we can learn from what motivated them. It
is not possible to count how many were touched and inspired by what Captain
Davis had to say.
Respect. To serve as he did, to live life as he did, helps sustain the
public respect for those who make the sacrifices that military service
involves.
By displaying his name respectfully and conspicuously, we ensure that
his story lives on, and that people are reminded always of how much he
contributed to his community and his country.
