In a recent government meeting, Councilman Marshall announced a significant event honoring the legacy of Private Gerald Dixon, a soldier wrongfully convicted in the early 20th century. On October 28th, Dixon will be reinterred with full military honors alongside his wife, Frances, at the Marion National Cemetery. This ceremony comes just days before Veterans Day and serves as a poignant reminder of the injustices faced by African American soldiers, particularly those in the 24th Infantry Regiment, known as the Buffalo Soldiers.
Dixon was one of 110 soldiers wrongfully convicted related to the 1917 Camp Logan incident and was sentenced to life in prison at Leavenworth. His sentence was later commuted by J. Edgar Hoover. The public is invited to attend both the reinterment ceremony, which will take place at 11 AM, and a related event at the Walton Performing Arts Center at Meriden High School, starting at 1 PM.
Additionally, the meeting included a reminder for residents about ongoing street paving efforts, urging caution around construction zones. Council members also expressed appreciation for recent updates to the council chambers, including new carpeting.
In a separate announcement, it was noted that September 17th marks Constitution Day, with the week following recognized as Constitution Week, celebrating the foundational document of American democracy.