Bedford Boys Tribute Center — Attraction in Bedford

I am a former 30+ year Army veteran, having visited Normandy 4 times, along with Arnhem, Hurtgen Forest and the American Cemetery in Luxemburg. All these locations are historical reminders of the WWII conflict and costs to win battles and attain peace. However, my first trip to Bedford on 26 Aug 2023 was simply different. In a word: overwhelming. Linda Parker gave me an unforgettable personal tour. This small museum encapsulates the horrific costs a small community sustained in SW Virginia via teletype messages days after the assault by Bedford's Company A as a part of the first wave of U.S. forces assaulting Omaha beach. Linda Parker had so many stories about the pictures, personal effects and family treasures donated by surviving family members of Co A, 116th Infantry Regiment. She was a walking encyclopedia of poignant family stories and amazing trivia - all contributing to make this small soda fountain store beyond a neighborhood landmark but an inspirational & relevant testimony to service, sacrifice and remembrance. Founders and Curators of this Nonprofit 501 (c) 3 Ken & Linda Parker: OFF THE CHARTS...

We went into the Bedford Boys Tribute Center one Sunday in June 2021, as my husband and I both study WWII history and were familiar with the story of the Bedford Boys’ sacrifice. We were not disappointed: the Tribute Center specializes in telling the personal stories—stories that remind you why we often the men and women who fought and helped out the “Greatest Generation.” Ken and Linda have cultivated a unique and moving collection of artifacts, and—more importantly—they’ve established connections with family members of the soldiers who paid the price of freedom. Whether you are a WWII history buff or a newcomer to the subject, the Bedford Boys Tribute Center has objects and stories that are both informative and emotional. We have visited several times since our first stop in June, and we always learn something new—and we’re always treated kindly. You will feel closer than ever to a history from over 75 years ago after a visit to the...

This was a very informative experience! Told of the sad stories of these young men who came from a typical small town at the start of WWII. These young men came from and grew up from this small town, went to the pharmacy/soda hangout together, which is the home for the tribute center. They went to school together, married their sweethearts, and left to defend this town and their country. Most never made it back home, alive. The ones that did come back, many were injured and had horrible memories of the war. Their families had saved their uniforms, letters to loved ones, a report card, musical instruments , pictures and a large amount of memorabilia from their lives.It was a guided tour that cost just $5 per person. Our guide was very knowledgeable, Gerry McCloskey. Unreal what all he knew, and did not read from notes, all in his head! A must to see while...