January 23rd, 2019 Third Class Petty Officer James Upchurch 

On January 23rd, 2019, Texarkana Sunrise Rotary Club had the honor of hosting WWII veteran Third Class Petty Officer James Upchurch. Mr. Upchurch enlisted in the Navy during WWII and was assigned to the USS Bolinger. Our club was fortunate enough to hear a first hand account of his experience during WWII. The USS Bolinger was a Haskell class vessel which carried 1500 Marines (and once also carried Army) for transport and invasion. Specifically, Mr. Upchurch and the Bollinger carried marines for the invasion of Iwo Jima. On behalf of the Texarkana Sunrise Rotary Club, we would like to extend our sincerest thanks and utmost respect for Mr. Upchurch's service to our country. It was an honor to have you with us!