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![]() George Lasater, seen here working in his home study, continues his efforts to document Charlevoix County's military veterans of World War II . . . and has now added World War I veterans to that list. [Photo: G. Monk] |
FORMER SHERIFF AND AUTHOR RECEIVES ASSISTANCE
FROM COUNTY GENEALOGY GROUP
Even with encouragement and countywide support, researching and writing a quality publication of any kind can be an overwhelming and daunting task. Local resident and former Charlevoix County Sheriff, George Lasater is no exception to the rule. Overcoming obstacles along the way, and many times working on his project after putting in a full day’s work, he has succeeded in putting together a lasting tribute to the men and women who served in the military from Charlevoix County during World War II.
AN ONGOING PROJECT
Most Charlevoix County residents are already aware of George Lasater’s 2005 publication, "Charlevoix County’s Contribution to World War II," which has since gone into a second reprinting. A work of this nature is a huge undertaking, and one that is not wrought without some errors and omissions. Since the time of the books first printing, Mr. Lasater has made many pleas to the community to come forward and provide him with any additions and corrections that they are aware of. Without the assistance of those with knowledge of our local veterans, his work must remain at a standstill- or simply go to print again with missing, and in some cases, incorrect information.
Lasater has also begun work on a new publication, which intends to document Charlevoix County’s contribution to World War I. In many ways, this new project has come with its own set of obstacles. Unfortunately, many of those with knowledge of our area’s World War I veterans have already passed away themselves and are now unable to share their knowledge with the author. This does not mean that the project is impossible however, simply that it will require more diligence and perseverance- character traits that former Sheriff, George Lasater has already shown time and again that he has an abundance of. CCGS President, Patrick McCleary offered this suggestion to local families; "Many families may be surprised, after a search of their own records, to discover that they have one, or several, WWI veterans within their families. Many may not be as familiar with these individuals (as those serving in the later wars). However, photographs of these men and women in uniform, their military documents, and even something as simple as a newspaper clipping or an obituary which makes mention of their time in service, will be important leads for Mr. Lasater as he continues to compile his WWI publication."
GENEALOGY GROUP STEPS FORWARD
Recognizing the enormous undertaking and importance of these publications in preserving this aspect of Charlevoix County history, the Charlevoix County Genealogical Society (CCGS) approached Lasater, requesting to work with both the community and the author. McCleary added, "we will be working with our membership and the general public to share additions and corrections to the Charlevoix County Military Veterans books. Over the past two years, we have heard many ask how to share a photograph or correct a misspelling for example. Although these details may seem minor to some, we felt that hosting a workshop of this nature might encourage the community to step forward and speak up. George Lasater has certainly gone above and beyond the call of duty with what he has done. We owe it to him to assist him in any way that we can - making his publications an accurate tribute to our area veterans, as well as a factual reference for future generations." The group chose to host their workshop in conjunction with their "Marching into Military History" theme which had been planned for the month of March.
Author, George Lasater will be present from 1:00-4:00 PM at the March 14th event to speak personally with those who have an interest in his book projects, as well as those who wish to learn more about the new Veteran’s Memorial being erected in downtown Boyne City. Those attending are encouraged to bring information, documents and photographs of their Charlevoix County military veterans from both World Wars I and II. The members of the CCGS will be on location to assist in making copies, noting the corrections, errors and omissions being pointed out by those in attendance. The group will also be assisting those with items to loan Lasater, so that this is done in a way that will assure safekeeping of the material and a safe return to them.
The Charlevoix County Genealogical Society, along with former Sheriff, George T. Lasater, will meet on Saturday, March 14, from 1:00-4:00 PM in the Lower Level Conference Room at the Boyne District Library, 201 E. Main Street, Boyne City. The workshop event will be free and the public is invited and encouraged to attend and assist the author in his research endeavors. Refreshments will be served. Please stop by and show your support of these projects!