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- Written by: Matt Wilson - Breese Journal Reporter
Vince Rolves Live-in caretaker Donna Burklow confirmed that Wilbert "Vince" Rolves passed away at 3 a.m. Tuesday at HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital in Breese.
Rolves celebrated his 102nd birthday on Feb. 23. A Carlyle resident, Rolves is believed to be the last living World War II prisoner of war in Illinois.
Burklow said Rolves had been ill for a long time and died of natural causes.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of SGT Vincent ‘Vince’ Rolves," Veterans Assistance Commission of Clinton County Superintendent Colbey Voss said. "It was truly an honor and a privilege to have known Vince, and I am grateful that I had the opportunity to spend time with a man who represented so much of what we honor in our veteran community. Vince’s service and sacrifice during World War II were extraordinary, but what I will remember just as much was the person behind that incredible story. Even after everything he endured, he continued to give back, share his experiences, and remind future generations of the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today."
Mayor Judy Smith said the city of Carlyle residents were saddened to hear of Rolves' passing.
"We give our deepest condolences on the passing of Vince Rolves," Smith said. "His military service and sacrifices, as the service and sacrifices of every veteran, will be remembering by those who knew and loved them."
Clinton County Board member Greg Riechman said one of the greatest privileges of being actively involved in supporting local veterans has been the opportunity to know and spend time with true American heroes like Rolves.
"Year after year, whether at Memorial Day ceremonies, Veterans Day observances, or other community events, Vince was always there, greeting everyone with a warm smile, a sharp sense of humor, and a humble spirit that never sought recognition for the extraordinary sacrifices he made," Riechman said. "Beside him, as always, was his devoted friend and trusted caregiver, Donna, whose companionship and support meant so much to him."
Rolves was one of the most decorated and celebrated veterans in southern Illinois.
He was drafted into the Army on March 23, 1943. He served until May 1945.
Rolves enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division of the Oklahoma National Guard, which would transfer to the European Theater of World War II.
His basic training was done in Alabama. After that, he got nine days off before boarding a ship to cross the Atlantic Ocean and go to war.
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- Written by: Kelly Jo Ross - Breese Journal News Editor
Public is encouraged to show up and support along parade route
Standin' Proud Veterans Tribute Museum in Bartelso is coordinating a special Honor Flight Celebration on Monday, Aug. 31, recognizing local veterans who have participated in an Honor Flight during 2026, as well as those preparing for two upcoming flights in September.
The celebration will begin at 11 a.m. at Standin’ Proud, 1507 Carlyle Road in Bartelso, and will include guest speakers, tribute videos and a recognition ceremony.
“We will recognize the veterans as well as have a few guest speakers to help show our support of those that have so selflessly served for our freedom,” said Larissa Monken, Standin’ Proud Veterans Tribute Museum administrator.
Following the ceremony, veterans and their guardians will depart on a parade route through Clinton County at approximately 12:45 p.m.
Organizers are encouraging local schools, families and community members to line the route and help create a memorable show of appreciation for the veterans. Those attending are encouraged to wave American flags, display patriotic signs and bring plenty of smiles and cheers as the procession makes its way through the county.
The parade will leave Standin’ Proud and travel east on Illinois Route 161 before heading north on Slant Road and then west on Old Route 50.
The procession is expected to travel through Carlyle at approximately 1 p.m. before continuing through Beckemeyer, Breese and Aviston. It is expected to reach Trenton at approximately 1:45 p.m. and conclude at the intersection of Old Route 50 and Route 160.
The following morning, Tuesday, Sept. 1, seven Clinton County veterans and their guardians will report to Springfield to participate in Land of Lincoln Honor Flight Mission #78.
Another nine Clinton County veterans are scheduled to depart from Marion on Monday, Sept. 14, for Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois Mission #17.
