In 1993, local historians Glenda Major and Clark Johnson put out a pictorial history called “Treasures of Troup County.”

If the name weren’t already taken, it would be appropriate for the new exhibit that opens Sunday at the Legacy Museum, 136 Main St.

“LaGrange and Troup County In World War II” salutes many of Troup County’s greatest generation - the men and women with Troup County connections who served in World War II. The exhibit features photographs, news clippings, uniforms, weapons, and much more, all dating from 1941 to 1945. Each face, each story, each bit of memorabilia represents service and sacrifice. Each is a treasure.

Three individuals deserve a big salute for assembling the exhibit - guest curators Isabelle Knight, Bobby Cammon and Terry Hoppe. Knight and Cammon gathered the original photos for the exhibit in 2008 for display at the LaGrange Symphony’s Memorial Day Concert. The exhibit has expanded significantly since then, thanks to donations and loans from many families in the area.

Check out the exhibit Sunday between 2-5 p.m. Look up in the sky about 3 p.m., weather permitting, for a flyover by Capt. Joe Fagundes in his 1943 Navy SNJ5 plane. Admission is free, but the exhibit is priceless.

More big salutes to:

Janea Freeman, 14, the youth of the year for the Boys and Girls Club of West Georgia. A violinist and softball player, this well-rounded student was recognized for solid character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community. We wish her well as she represents the local club in state competition.

Aaron McCullough of Troup County Baptist Association, honored as associational missionary of the year by the Georgia Baptist Convention. Under McCullough’s enthusiastic leadership, the local Baptist Association has grown and prospered. Congratulations to the motorcycle-riding preacher on a well-deserved honor.

The first group of “master drivers” has been recognized by Troup County school system. School bus drivers can achieve master status by meeting a series of requirements focusing on safety, attendance, training and performance. Hats off to the 2009 master drivers: Ebenezer Sanni-Osomo, Doug Jewell, Robert Burnett, Kristal Moton, Erma Roberts, Deborah Davis, Sid Shelnutt and Willard Lacy. The safe transport of our school children is an awesome and challenging responsibility. Thanks to these and all drivers who keep the “big yellows” rolling safely along.