A family in Mesa is remembering the life of their 103-year-old patriarch. Thomas Mayor was among the tens of thousands of Filipino and U.S. soldiers who took part in the infamous Bataan Death March during World War II.
Lt. David Barthman, who served in the Vietnam Conflict, lost his home and many prized possessions, including his military medals, to the Tunnel Fire. Since the fire, however, people in the Flagstaff area have been helping the veteran get back on his feet.
Vietnam War veteran David Garthman went to his “Welcome Home” ceremony at American Legion Post No. 3 in Flagstaff dressed to impress, though he only expected 10, maybe 15 people would be there. The 75 who showed up caught him by surprise.
The community thanked Lt. David Barthman for his service with an official welcome home ceremony, which of course was highly emotional, not only for the community but for Lt. David Barthman.