Spokane remembers murdered WW2 veteran Delbert Belton in candlelight vigil, memorial fund set up
Over 100 people showed up Friday night at the Eagle’s Lodge near Lidgerwood and Francis in Spokane, Wash., to pay their respects to Delbert Belton, the 88-year-old World War 2 veteran who was beaten to death Wednesday night by two men identified as young African-American males.
According to Spokane’s KREM-2, the crowd sang “Proud to be an American” to thank Delbert for his service in the military. Belton served in the Army and was wounded at the Battle of Okinawa.
Honora Swanson and KREM-TV reported:
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Flowers began piling up Thursday morning in honor of Delbert Belton who was killed nearby outside of the Eagles Ice-A-Rena.
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Others shared memories about Delbert and some called him “Shorty” and some said they felt compelled to speak even though they didn’t know him.
“He survived combat just like I did. To die like he did that was just a waste. But now God brought him home,” one person said.
One of the two suspects, Demetrius Glenn, 16, has been arrested. The other suspect, Kenan Adams-Kinard, 16, remains at large. The two suspects reportedly beat Delbert with heavy flashlights. KXLY said Glenn would be charged as an adult on counts of first degree murder and first degree robbery.
According to a post at Weasel Zippers, Belton was waiting to escort a lady into the lodge.
People signing "Proud to be an American" @krem2 #delbertbelton pic.twitter.com/2wCB5Ma8jE
— Honora Thompson (@HonoraThompson) August 24, 2013
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Little girl speaks about "Shorty" @krem2 pic.twitter.com/COIHGu3jkq
— Honora Thompson (@HonoraThompson) August 24, 2013
KREM said a motorcade was also on hand to ride in Delbert’s memory.
“People at the memorial said the Spokane Veteran’s Arena is accepting calls from the community to gauge how many people would like to see a community memorial set up at the Eagles Lodge,” Swanson added.
Those who wish to help the Belton family can donate to a memorial fund set up at Wells Fargo Bank. Donations can be made to: The Delbert Belton Memorial Fund c/o Wells Fargo Bank, 601 W. 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201.
KREM said Belton’s murder has sparked national outrage and demands for justice:
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