When a veteran is lost, it is a sad situation for the nation.

It hits especially hard to those who knew that veteran well.

Last week, Dallas County American Legion Post 20 honored the memory of Robert “Bob” Slone with a plaque commemorating his service to the United States.

Post Commander Jesus Sanchez presented the plaque, which read “In recognition of Bob Slone’s outstanding meritorious Service to the Thomas R. Mackin American Legion Post 20, Selma, Alabama for 57 years.”

The plaque continued, “Comrade Slone exhibited diligence, professionalism, dedication and leadership in exercising the principals of the American Legion.”

Sanches said Slone was responsible for the purchase of the property Post 20 now occupies on Highway 80.

“His articulate manner of communication served greatly in the revitalization and current existence of the American Legion in Selma,” he said.

Slone, who was 85, died March 1, 2010 at a local hospital.

Slone was celebrated as “a Christian, a patriot, and a decorated WWII veteran, having served in the US Marine Corps and was a member of Elkdale Baptist Church, the American Legion, the VFW, and the Lions Club.”

He received a Purple Heart as a result of his military service on Guam. He also was the owner of Slone Inc., an office equipment and supply business in Selma from 1954 until his retirement in 2009.

The plaque that was presented in his honor said Slone “exemplified all the qualities inherent to an American Patriot.”