SALYERSVILLE Private First Class Julian H. Patrick, a soldier from Magoffin County who was killed in action in Germany during World War II, was honored this past weekend with a ceremony unveiling a sign that names a local bridge after Patrick in remembrance of his sacrifices.
The following resolution, signed by the fiscal court in 2022, was read at the ceremony this past weekend, detailing Patrick’s story:
WHEREAS, the Magoffin County Fiscal Court wishes to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by Private First Class Julian H. Patrick to his country;
WHEREAS, Julian H. Patrick was born April 29, 1921, in Magoffin County, Kentucky;
WHEREAS, PFC Patrick enlisted in the United States Army in the early 1940s and after completing his training received orders to do service with Company “F” 32nd Armored Regimen and the unit was assigned to Germany to support the war efforts. PFC Patrick’s unit was on operations in the Battle of Liege, Belgium where he was wounded on September 3, 1944. He was sent to a hospital in England for recovery. After recovering he was sent back to his unit on February 26, 1945, which was in Germany at the time. Shortly after his return, his unit was engaged in the fierce Battle of Cologne in Germany. On March 6, 1945, PFC Patrick was killed in action when his tank was hit with an artillery round at the tank duel at the Cathedral of Cologne. Commander William C. MacElveen’s letter to Mrs. Patrick stated, “it has been a privilege to know your late son, Julian, for almost three years, it is with a heavy heart that I write you at this time, Mrs. Patrick. His death is a great loss to us and deeply felt by members of my command. Julian received a sight wound on September 6, 1933, and left us until February 10, 1945, from his return from recovery in England. We were glad to have him back with us because of his character, bravery, wit, and an always-a pleasing smile. His three Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart are mute evidence of his unselfish sacrifice to help make this world a decent place for the loved ones he loved so well. Yes, Mrs. Patrick, you must be ever proud of the life and deeds of your son Julian, of his part in this victorious war against Nazi domination of the world. Your son, Private First Class Julian H. Patrick, 15056008, was killed in action on 6 March 1945 in Germany.” His body was interred in an American Cemetery in Belgium, and a Protestant Chaplin conducted the burial service.
WHEREAS, Private First Class Julian H. Patrick was awarded the Purple Heart, three Bronze Stars and many commendations for his service, dedication and heroism.
WHEREAS, PFC Patrick did not make it home to talk to loved ones and friends to tell about his experiences of the war. Private First Class Julian H. Patrick’s remains were returned in 1947, and interred in the family cemetery at Tom Patrick Cemetery in Magoffin County, Kentucky.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby resolved, that the bridge located on Kentucky Rt. 7 in Salyersville, Magoffin County at mile point 24.055 be forever known as PFC Julian H. Patrick Memorial Bridge.
Done this 19th day of July, 2022
Signed:
Matthew C. Wireman, Magoffin Co. Judge/Executive
Darrell Ray Howard, Magistrate Dist. 1
Pernell Lemaster, Magistrate Dist. 2
Joe Bailey, Magistrate Dist. 3
Attest: Renee Arnett Shepherd, County Clerk
