At this stage in his life, the Rev. Dr. Lee Ward, pastor of Greater Harvest Church of God In Christ Ministries, Inc. in Memphis, has a storehouse of never-to-be-forgotten memories. On Wednesday (June 27), he added another.

Ward is a surviving member of the historic, Munford Point Marines, the first African-American members of the United States Marine Corps. He and his surviving Marine brothers were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor that a citizen can achieve.

A follow up reenactment of the ceremony for the church and community will be held at 5 p.m. on August 4 at Greater Harvest, 3905 Boxdale at Winchester.

Ward served in the United States Marine Corps for over 26 years. While doing his tour of duty, he served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam Conflict. For nine years, he served on the staff of the Commandant, whom he accompanied on meetings with several U.S. presidents. He retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant.