An annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon by the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce last week took a special turn for one veteran.
102-year-old Blanchard resident Lonnie DaVoult, a World War II veteran, was presented with a Citation of Appreciation from the Oklahoma Senate.
The citation was requested by District 43 State Senator Kendal Sacchieri (R-Blanchard) and presented at the luncheon by House District 20 State Representative Jonathan Wilk (R-Goldsby).
The citation states, “It is both fitting and proper that the Oklahoma State Senate, on behalf of the people of the great state of Oklahoma, extends its deepest appreciation, respect and gratitude to World War II veteran Lonnie DaVoult for his extraordinary service to our nation in time of war, for his bravery in the face of danger, and for his enduring example of faith, resilience, and joyful service to others on Memorial Day 2026.
The citation states that “DaVoult demonstrated courageous service to the United States during World War II and lifelong dedication to faith, family, and community.”
It notes that “he was initially trained as a mechanic working on Jeeps, but was transferred to the Signal Corps after a conversation with his division officer. There, he undertook the dangerous assignment of delivering messages by Jeep between headquarters and the front lines across Europe.”
The citation states, “In the course of his duties, DaVoult participated in the liberation of the Dacha Concentration Camp by the U.S. Army Signal Corps, bearing witness to one of the darkest chapters of history and contributing to the rescue of its sur- DAVOULT on page 3 vivors.”
DAVOULT: ‘I gave myself to God, to continue teaching’
It continues, “During his service, DaVoult was within 25 miles of Hitler’s summer home when he learned of the end of the war in Europe.”
DaVoult was later injured when his Jeep struck a land mine. He was awarded the Purple Heart along with several other medals recognizing his valor and sacrifice.
“DaVoult has lived a remarkable life of faith and service,” the citation states, “preaching the word of God with passion and enthusiasm for over 75 years, and he credits his longevity and vitality to his devotion to God and his commitment to staying active, stating, ‘My secret to long life is because I gave myself to God, to continue teaching and preaching his mighty word and you have to stay active to stay alive.’” Retired Major General Greg Ferguson, a 1977 Newcastle High School graduate, was the featured speaker for the Appreciation Luncheon. Ferguson provided recollections of Newcastle including its teamwork, toughness and accountability.
He said growing up in Newcastle helped teach what duty and service looks like, as well as answering the call.
Ferguson said Memorial Day reminds us that freedom is not free.
He added that it helps teach the next generation to live worthy of the veterans’ sacrifices, and never take this nation for granted.
• photo by Mark Codner Retired Major General Greg Ferguson was the guest speaker at the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce Veterans Appreciation Luncheon Tuesday, May 26 at the Newcastle Library Community Building.
• photo by Mark Codner Newcastle-area veterans stand at attention and salute during the playing of TAPs during the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce Veterans Appreciation Luncheon Tuesday, May 26.
