EDITOR’S NOTE:
The following story was promoted on page A-1 of the April 22 Sequim Gazette but did not appear in that issue. The Gazette regrets the omission and extends its apologies to the Richmond family.
Sequim resident and business owner Kenneth Brian Richmond, who died in 2004, was remembered April 19 for his patriotism, faith and loyalty during a short ceremony dedicating a bench in his honor along the Olympic Discovery Trail.
Richmond and his wife, Jay, ran the Richmond Press in downtown Sequim for 12 years before he died in 2004.
He was a past commander of Isaac Stevens Camp No. 1 of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. Members of this group have a direct ancestor who fought in the Civil War.
Kenneth Richmond also was interested in the causes of United Daughters of the Confederacy and Sons of Confederate Veterans and was remembered for his efforts to bring the two sides together.
Jay Richmond read a eulogy from Randy Richmond, Ken’s brother, that described him as "a historian at heart and a humanitarian." Jay’s daughter Cynthia finished reading it after her mother became overcome with emotion.
Lt. Gary Pearson, Seattle Fire Department chaplain, spoke of Richmond’s patriotism and his willingness to sacrifice his time and energy.
He said Richmond was dedicated to the three principles of the Grand Army of the Republic (Union Army during the Civil War): fraternity, charity and loyalty.
Terry Roth of Port Angeles said he met Kenneth and Randy Richmond at an Explorer post in 1973.
Kenneth Richmond set up a communication network for veterans and helped establish the military museum now housed in the Richard B. Anderson Federal Building in Port Angeles, Roth said.
"It was a pleasure to work with Ken," he said.
The ceremony ended with R. Bruce Smith of Woodinville from the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War playing taps and a closing prayer from Pearson.
"As we go from here, may this marker remind all who pass of the devotion and dedication of Commander Kenneth Richmond and all who have made our nation great. May all be humbled and encouraged by this marker to esteem and perpetuate these virtues within our own lives," he said.
The bench is inscribed "In memory of Commander Kenneth B. Richmond, Isaac Stevens Camp, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War."
It was bought and installed with donations from Isaac Stevens Camp No. 1, Sons of Union Veterans; Clara Barton Tent No. 1, Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War; Robert E. Lee Chapter, Daughters of the Confederacy; private gifts and the city of Sequim.
Reach Brian Gawley at bgawley@sequimgazette.com.
