submitted by Mary Helen Myers, Groveland Historical Society Museum
Jean Charron, a 97-year-old Groveland WWII veteran, was honored last week by the Groveland Historical Society at their outdoor meeting.
Jean arrived in Groveland over 40 years ago when he moved to his home on beautiful Lake Emma.
Serving in the Navy from 1942 until the war’s end in 1945, he was a flagman on an LST ship in the Mediterranean Sea, which supplied tanks and other supplies to our troops in North Africa, France and Southern Italy. Following his military service, Jean became a barber and would become the father of nine children.
The Groveland museum is now open to the public for tours on Saturdays between 11:00 – 1:00 or by special appointment. Safety precautions, due to Covid-19, will be in place. Major restructuring of the museum has occurred this year and the historical society is pleased to now offer the public such things as: A history of our 1800’s pioneers who settled the area, a history of Groveland, some of our locals who have made the news, a section devoted entirely to the old Groveland High School and a history of former area schools, a display focusing on Groveland’s ties to “9-11,” the citrus industry, and our Veterans, among other displays.
You are encouraged to come enjoy a tour which is both free and informative. The museum is located adjacent to the Puryear Building at 243 S. Lake Avenue. If you cannot visit during their regular Saturday hours, you may contact the president, Mary Helen Myers, 352-429-4514, and schedule an appointment. Should anyone be aware of other WWII veterans living in the Groveland area, kindly call this number as well.
