Ret. U.S. Air Force Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris, former Vietnam prisoner of war, was honored with the dedication of a lounge room in his name at the American Legion Post #49 in Tupelo, Mississippi on September 18, 2020.
He was honored for his exceptional service during the Vietnam War and his time as a POW for 2,781 days.
To make the room dedication ceremony more memorable, Harris’ family and friends surprised Harris and held the ceremony on POW/MIA Recognition Day.
Carlyle Harris’ son, Lyle Harris, spoke about why the ceremony was special and what his father means to their family.
“I believe this room will highlight his love for the military and his dedication to our country,” he said. “Today is of great significance, it’s POW recognition day, as well as the Air Force’s 73rd birthday. My dad is our hero and our role model, we love you dad.”
Shortly after, Harris and his family and friends were led to the room which was dedicated to Harris to cut the ribbon and officially open the room.
The room was filled with memorabilia of Harris’ time in service, including service medals, official portraits and his own book titled “Tap Code” that was released in November of 2019.
Harris led his guests through the room while explaining what each of the pieces were and what they meant to him.
After, Harris and his family thanked American Legion Post #49 for the ceremony.
“Most importantly, I want to thank the members of American Legion Post #49,” Lyle Harris said. “I looked up their motto and it said ‘for God and country’, if you know my father, you know he’s all about God and country. Thank you for providing a platform to show off some special memorabilia for the years to come.”
