Rush County veteran, Sgt. Maj. Bob Brown, 94, was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash on Dec. 7 at the Rush County Elks. Just over a month after receiving the award, Brown made the trip to Indianapolis where the award was officially presented to Brown by Gov. Holcomb.
The term “sagamore” was used by the American Indian Tribes of the northeastern United States to describe a lesser chief or a great man among the tribe to whom the true chief would look for wisdom and advice.
Each governor presents the certificates in their own way. The award is the highest honor which the Governor of Indiana bestows. It is a personal tribute usually given to those who have rendered a distinguished service to the state or to the governor.
Among those who have received Sagamores have been astronauts, presidents, ambassadors, artists, musicians, politicians, and ordinary citizens who have contributed greatly to our Hoosier Heritage.
The American Legion, the Rush Co. Honor Guard, and other veterans' organizations gathered on Dec. 7, in observance of the 80th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Brown was invited to attend the remembrance. He was happy to oblige; however, Sgt.Maj. Brown did not know he would receive the highest honor bestowed by the Governor of Indiana, the Sagamore of the Wabash Award, later in the evening.
Brown served his country through three wars - WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Brown received the Purple Heart while serving in Kore. When Brown's military service ended, he continued to work tirelessly to help veterans. A true testament to the patriotism and love Brown has for his country.