This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
Marion man joins West Point Long Gray Line graduate
David J. Bender of Marion becomes part of West Point's first coed class on May 28, earning a bachelor of science and a commission as a second lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers. The Herrin High School graduate studied science, engineering and humanities and joined the Ski Club Orienteering Team and Judo Team. Major Mike Kimmel, a Carbondale attorney, advances in the Air Force Reserve after academy graduation in 1968 and five years piloting multi engine jet transports with a Southeast Asia tour. Daniel C. Walker from Carbondale rises to senior airman as a weapons mechanic in England. Staff Sgt. Sherman Rowell and Staff Sgt. Bill Jeter from Marion earn Army recruiting honors Code. Ritchey Wolaver of Marion participates with The Old Guard at Fort Myer Spirit of America pageant. Bruce Coby of Cutler trains in BRIDGEX 80 in Germany. Darrel Hock of Carterville completes OSUT at Fort Benning. Staff Sgt. William Bean of Herrin earns a safe driving certificate with the 13th Armor in Illesheim. Marine Pfc. John Sanders of Benton reports to El Toro MCAS Santa Ana. Marine Pvt. Donald Sturm of Herrin completes basic combat engineer course at Camp Lejeune.