Tribute for DeBlanc underway

Submitted by admin on Wed, 02/20/2008 - 17:01

Dan McKain

St. Martinville — Over 150 people turned out Friday to honor the late Col. Jefferson J. DeBlanc, World War II ace and Medal of Honor recipient, at the Woodmen of the World Hall.

The invocation was given by DeBlanc’ eldest son, Monsignor. Jefferson DeBlanc Jr., and guest speaker was Maj. Gen. Hunt Downer of the Louisiana National Guard. Henri Clay Bienvenu, editor and publisher emeritus of the Teche News, followed with personal remarks about Col. DeBlanc.

A highlight of the event was the History Channel video reenactment of DeBlanc’s dazzling airmanship and valor in aerial combat in the South Pacific.