Last Updated on April 22, 2019 by cassnetwork
A former federal agent who was a prisoner of war during World War II is being honored posthumously by the City of Logansport and the local Bob Evans restaurant.
At the restaurant’s request, the city has contributed a memorial parking sign in memory of Charles Burks. Miesje Biggs, general manager of the Kokomo location who resides in Logansport and formerly managed the Logansport restaurant, initiated a request to Bob Evans’ corporate office. The space is believed to be the first honoring a veteran at any Bob Evans location in the United States.
Burks was a pilot in World War II who was shot down and held in a German concentration camp. He later escaped, and after being discharged from the military, went on to a long and distinguished career. His involvement in desegregation effort during the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s is legendary. He was honored by the University of Mississippi at the 50th anniversary of its desegregation. He also has been recognized at another local restaurant, West Side Diner, for his part in ensuring the safety of a student attending what had been an all-white school.
“We’re truly honored to have had Charles Burks as a Logansport resident and appreciate all the sacrifices he made in war and peace on behalf of the United States,” Mayor Dave Kitchell said today. “As we enter the month in which he observe Memorial Day, it’s important not to forget the contributions he and so many others made on our behalf and to acknowledge the veterans in our midst for the unselfish patriotism.”
SOURCE: News release from Logansport Mayor Dave Kitchell