William "Robert" Carter and Donald Bosley have been named the grand marshals of the 2022 Poteau Veteran's Day Parade, which will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. Line-up will begin at 9 a.m. at Carl Albert State College, with walkers who wish to participate being able to get organized at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center parking lot.
Carter was born Sept. 9, 1946, in Sikeston, Mo., to Albert and Lena Carter. After graduating from Spiro High School, Robert enlisted in the Navy at age 19. While home on leave, before his first tour, Robert married his love, Joyce Myers. Robert and Joyce were blessed with two children — Carry Carter who was born in 1970 and Eric Carter who was born in 1973.
He was assigned to the Seabees where he spent four years. During this time Robert received multiple accommodations while rising to the rank of E5. His active military career started Nov. 11, 1965, and lasted until Sept. 6, 1969, spending time in Japan and Vietnam. At this time, Robert joined the Naval Reserves for two years to finish out his six-year obligation.
In 2004, Robert took over the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4884 as Commander and currently holds that position. In 2007, Robert helped raise money and plan a trip to take 50 World War ll veterans to see the World War ll Memorial in Washington.
Robert has dedicated his life to helping people, from a young child working in the fields to a young man on the battlefield. As a service officer, he works very hard helping veterans and their families receive benefits they deserve. Robert has really never retired. He spends his work days helping others. When you can’t find Robert and he isn't answering his phone, it's a good possibility that he is either in a basketball gym, in the bleachers at a football game or in a tree stand. He enjoys spending time with his family.
Bosley grew up in Albuquerque, N.M. He enlisted in the Navy in May 1965 at age 17 before he graduated. He later received his high school degree in 2016 alongside his granddaughter at Howe High School.
After basic training, Don was deployed to Vietnam on July 27, 1965. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Coral Sea (CV-43). Don served three separate tours. His first tour was for six months, the second tour was for 11 months and the last tour was for eight months.
Don received several awards — two Bronze Stars, a National Defense Service medal, Vietnam Service medal, a Vietnam Campaign medal and a Navy Unit Commendation ribbon. He also received a Combat Action ribbon, a Presidential Unit citation, a Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit citation (Gallantry) and a Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit citation (Civil action).
Don got out in September 1968 with the rank of an E-4.
Don continues to serve. He is the post commander at the Heavener VFW. He has been doing it for 14 years and still loves it. He has three kids, four grandchildren and a great-grandchild. He enjoys spending time with them. Don said “I am proud to have served my country.”
Prior to the parade, the LeFlore County Historical Society will have a breakfast from 7-10 a.m. at the LeFlore County Museum at Hotel Lowery. The cost is $5 per person.
