USMC Sgt. Mecot Camara grew up alongside his sister Elisa here in Hinton. Mecot was in the 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, of the United States Marine Corps. On the morning of October 23, 1983, Sgt. Mecot Camara was one of 241 victims of the Beirut bombing. The intersection of Routes 3 and 20 here is named “USMC SGT Mecot E. Camara Memorial Highway” in his honor.
Last weekend, Mecot was honored and remembered in Hinton. On Friday, May 7 the Mountain Man Memorial March took place. Mecot’s sister Elisa carried 22 pounds on her back. She said, “The 22 pounds represented the 22 veterans that commit suicide daily.” There was also a wreath laying ceremony at 4 p.m. at Restwood Cemetery.
On Saturday, May 8 there was a memorial motorcycle ride event in remembrance of Mecot and all other Veterans and active duty military members. When the motorcyclists entered back into town from their ride, they were welcomed by waving American flags.
Shortly after, the Second Saturday festivities began on the courthouse lawn. There were food vendors, craft vendors, and live music. Mecot’s Sister Elisa had a booth set up for her American Brother Foundation. The Hinton Hot Rod Association had classic cars lined up beside the lawn on second avenue to be looked at as well.
In a phone interview with Elisa she said “There’s no place like home, and Hinton, West Virginia, is our home. That’s where Mecot and I grew up, had a great childhood and made wonderful memories with great people. There are so many people to thank. The kindness of the people in Hinton was huge and the kindness of my Beirut Marine family is everything. I’m very blessed to have the support and love from the people back home and my Beirut Marine family. “
If you are interested in learning more on Elisa’s nonprofit organization — the American Brother Foundation, or making a donation see their Facebook page or visit americanbrother.us on the web.
