Providence native recalls World War II service in book

Seeks to reconnect with local roots

by MATT HUGHES
J-E Editor
John R. Johnson Jr. is a name that might not be familiar to many people left in Webster County, but he remembers his life in the small town of Providence fondly. Fondly enough that his next goal is to complete a book about his life here, growing up in the western Kentucky coalfields.

A letter asking for help contacting people that might remember him  and want to help share info for his book is how I first became acquainted with Mr. Johnson, but it was clear from the start that his story was one that needs to be shared with everyone.

In December of 2013, Johnson published a memoir called “Un-Armed, Un-Armored and Un-Escorted: A World War II C-47 Airborne Troop Carrier Pilot Remembers”.

In honor of Memorial Day and all of the veterans it represents, I would like to share a little bit about a veteran who grew up right here in Webster County.

Coal Festival

by MATT HUGHES
J-E Editor
The Providence Coal Festival Committee has announced the schedule of events for the 38th Annual Coal Festival, which will kick off Tuesday, May 26 at 5:00 p.m.

For years the event was held on the second week of June, but the last few years have seen the date pushed back into May. Although not a popular change for some parents, with schools still is session, it’s a change that was necessary.

“If we want to have rides, we don’t have a choice,” said Coal Festival Committee member Clint Prow. “The company that provides the rides has other places to go in June.”
The schedule of events includes: