A ceremony held on Saturday, July 30, dedicated the road in front of Ballengee Park in honor of Elmo Davis’ life and memory. A new sign now stands at the beginning of the road, denoting the dedication. Several individuals spoke during the ceremony, including Representative Roy Cooper and John Hendrick.
Born in November of 1921, Elmo grew up working on a farm in Ballengee and was the son of Lomer and Allie Davis. Between 1963 and 1980, Davis owned and operated the Davis Grocery Store, which once stood on the site of Ballengee Park. Prior to owning the store, Davis worked as a truck driver. First for Shanklin’s Trucking and later purchasing his own truck.
Before his work as a civilian, Davis was a member of the United States Army. After entering the Army, he trained and deployed with the 85th infantry. While deployed, Davis fought in Patton’s Sicily campaign in the summer of 1943.
Unfortunately, Davis was wounded during the battle of Messina and was eventually sent back to the U.S. for treatment. His treatment included removing a bone piece from Davis’ leg and placing it in his arm, where a shard was missing due to his injury.
Davis received three awards for his bravery during service; the Bronze Star, the Infantryman’s Badge and the Purple Heart.
Sadly, Davis passed away in 2014 at the age of 92.
The sign now stands proudly in honor of Davis, his accomplishments and his service to the country. Anyone who wishes to see the dedication sign can drive down Ballengee Road to the intersection of Ballengee with Big Stoney Creek and Plantation Road.
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