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Special to the Daily Journal/Messenger

Pictured are twin brothers, Steve, left, and Stanley Merck with the Chapter's new banner.

WALHALLA — The newly formed Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1017 in Oconee County has formally adopted its new name. The chapter voted to name the new organization in honor of the late Roger Merck from the Flat Shoals Community near Salem.

Merck was the first Oconee County soldier killed in action in Vietnam during a battle in November 1965. Some 15 family members, including younger twin brothers of Merck, were in attendance at the chapter’s February meeting.

“The twin boys were very young when news arrived back home to their parents in late 1965 telling them their son had been killed by enemy fire in Vietnam,” said VVA Chapter President Harvey Spencer.

“The most vivid memory we have of the funeral for our brother was the playing of ‘Taps’ at the graveside,” one of the twins said.

“We are honored to name our chapter in memory of Roger Merck, the first Oconee County soldier killed in Vietnam,” said Spencer.

The local VVA Chapter is the largest chapter in South Carolina even though it is brand new boasting membership in excess of 120 members, by far the most of any chapter in South Carolina. Any veteran who served on active duty between 1965 and 1975 is eligible for membership. Contact Spencer at (864) 638-7553 or the Oconee County Veteran’s Affairs Office at (864) 638-4231.