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Family Gathers for Salute to Fallen WWII Marine

By ERIC AYRES 5 min read

WHEELING -- More than eight decades after Cpl. Nicholas Thomas Coram was killed in action during World War II, members of his family gathered with city leaders, local veterans and others Friday to give a hometown salute to his life and service to the nation.

Coram was the latest KIA veteran from Wheeling to be recognized during a special banner dedication ceremony. The Wheeling Military Banner Program has been honoring past and present military personnel from the city for nearly two years, and the names and faces of these patriots can be seen displayed above city streets in neighborhoods throughout the city.

"The banner program began on Veterans Day two years ago," Wheeling Mayor Denny Magruder said, noting that there are now 437 banners displayed throughout the city. "For those killed in action, we do offer solemn ceremonies such as this one this morning."

Banner program coordinator John Larch noted that Coram was born in Wheeling on March 1, 1915. He grew up near the Center Wheeling location where his banner is now displayed and where the ceremony took place on 24th Street.

Serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Cpl. Coram was part of the 4th Marine Division that landed on the island of Saipan during the opening phase of a pivotal campaign in the Pacific theater during World War II. He was killed in action in June 1944 during the initial wave of the invasion of the Pacific island, which was being defended by the Japanese Empire. The United States captured the island as a result of the bloody, nearly monthlong battle, and it remains a U.S. territory today.

"Cpl. Coram was serving his country during World War II when he gave his all in the line of duty," Larch said. "More than eight decades later, we gather here this morning to say something very simple: Cpl. Nicholas Thomas Coram has not been forgotten."

Coram was a decorated Marine, and his service is remembered by his family and community. Monsignor Bakhos Chidiac of Our Lady of Lebanon Church noted that Coram is among other local servicemen from his church who have died for their country over the years and are commemorated in a monument honoring them at the church.

Several family members, mostly nieces and nephews whose families still reside in Wheeling, were on hand during Friday's ceremony.

"I know my uncle grew up in this neighborhood here," said Bob Coram, nephew of Cpl. Coram. "I always heard great stories about his service and what a good gentleman he was."

Bob Coram expressed thanks on behalf of the family to those behind the Wheeling Military Banner Program for honoring those who served.

Kennedy Roberts, a field representative from the office of U.S. Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., also expressed appreciation for the banner program. On behalf of the congressman, Roberts presented family members with a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol and a certificate honoring Coram's service.

"It seems especially poignant that the Corams are still here in Wheeling 80 years later," Roberts said. "I don’t know that that would be true elsewhere in our country, but we know here in West Virginia, our roots go very deep."

Wheeling VFW Post 4442 Commander Bob Blake noted that freedom has a cost that is paid by brave men and women in military service.

"On behalf of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, I’m privileged to stand here today as we honor one of Wheeling’s own who made the ultimate sacrifices in service to our nation," Blake said, noting the importance of remembering a fallen soldier’s life, family and legacy of courage. "It’s about ensuring that his sacrifice - this hometown hero - is never forgotten."

Assistant City Manager Bill Lanham noted that Coram was among those from the Greatest Generation who made the ultimate sacrifice.

"What your relative has done for our country and for our community, we just want to thank you," Lanham told the Coram family.

Members of the Moundsville Honor Guard delivered a ceremonial folding and presentation of an American flag, followed by a rifle salute and the playing of taps during the dedication.

"It’s so very important that we carry on the legacy of the sacrifices that these brave veterans gave to our country," said Dave Schoenian, president of the Moundsville Honor Guard. "It’s truly been an honor."

The Wheeling Military Banner Program’s final KIA ceremonies are scheduled to take place next week. Officials from the program noted that the banners are expected to be displayed until Veterans Day, then taken down and stored until next season, when they will be placed on display again by Memorial Day.

However, those interested in honoring a military member with a banner can reach out and start the process at any time during the year.

"The banner program is available to all veterans or active duty personnel in the military," Magruder said, noting that information is available on the city’s website. "It’s been an absolutely amazing program. It ensures that our citizens will not forget all of those who have served our country and made the sacrifice."

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