WHEREAS, the City of Jacksonville, Texas proudly recognizes the distinguished service of William Donnell Franklin, Staff Sergeant-E6, U. S. Army; and

WHEREAS, Staff Sergeant Franklin was born and raised in Jacksonville, attending public schools, graduating Jacksonville High School in 1997; and

WHEREAS, his family, mother, Fannie Franklin, his brothers, Byron and Raymond, his sister, Paulette Franklin, and daughter, Lisa are very proud of his extraordinary service to his country; and

WHEREAS, William Donnell Franklin’s military career began in August 1997 with his duty assignments taking him to the 21st Infantry Regiment in Ft. Benning, Georgia, to the 66th Transportation Company, Kaiserslautern, Germany from 2000-2002, to the 15th Transportation Company, Ft. Sills, Oklahoma from 2002-2006 and the 1st Battalion 15th Infantry Regiment, Ft Benning, Georgia from 2006 to present; and

WHEREAS, Staff Sergeant Franklin has bravely served his country during three combat tours from January 2003 through May 2008, committing himself to the freedom of all, through Operation Iraqi Freedom, earning the Army Commendation Metal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROBERT N HABERLE, MAYOR of the City of Jacksonville, Texas, on behalf of the citizens of this community, do hereby salute


and pay tribute to your stalwart commitment to your fellow comrades and nation, a nation that is truly grateful. May you always reflect on the immense contributions you have made for your country.

SIGNED THIS THE 27th DAY OF JUNE, 2008.