Franklin Newkirk

Mr. Franklin Newkirk, of Augusta, died on Friday, September 26, 2008. He was 88 years old. Mr. Newkirk was born May 22, 1920 in Willard, NC and lived in Augusta nearly 50 years. He was a member of Crestview Baptist Church. He served during World War II as U.S. Army tank comander in Patton's Third Army.He earned a bronze star for heroic achievement in Vancourt, France and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He servedhis country on active duty for 20 years. After retiring as Sergeant First Class, he taught 20 years as a civilian instructor at Fort Gordon Signal School and during this time he invented a cable testing adapter which at that time was going to save the Signal School $40,000 annually. That invention was recommended by the incentive awards committe for use throughout the Army. He was a Mason, he was a lifelong fiddle player and enjoyed playing with his musician friends. After full retirement, he and his late wife, Mary, enjoyed spending time at their second home in Surf City, NC, which they affectionately called "Vacation Land". He especially loved fishing with his friends at the Jolly Roger Pier. Funeral services will be conduced Monday September 29, 2008 at 3:00 PM at Poteet Funeal Home Chapel. Rev. Jimmy Sanders officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park with full Military honors.