On Display November 5 – 29
Honoring Our Local Heroes with a special addition to the Veterans exhibit, featuring Aviation Radioman David Learoy Rickards.
The Carrabelle History Museum is honored to announce a special additional display for its Veteran Tribute Exhibit in recognition of Veterans Day. The Veteran Tribute Exhibit pays heartfelt tribute to several local men who bravely served in the armed forces from World War I through Vietnam. Deeply meaningful to the community, this display has touched the hearts of local families and visitors alike. The special addition will be on display from Wednesday, November 5 through Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The exhibit continues to celebrate military veterans with strong ties to Carrabelle and Franklin County, sharing their personal stories of courage, service, and sacrifice. In honor of Veterans Day, this year’s special addition will be Aviation Radioman Petty Officer Second Class David Learoy Rickards. David Rickards was born on October 12, 1921 in Carrabelle to Omer “O. E.” Rickards, a fisherman, and Della Rickards.
At the age of 20, David Learoy Rickards registered for military service in Franklin County. At the time he was working for J.T. Millinor in Carrabelle, FL. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a radio operator aboard naval aircraft, a critical part of the aircrew.
On May 30, 1944, Rickards died while in service to his country when the Naval aircraft that he was aboard tragically crashed near Chincoteague Naval Auxiliary Air Station in Virginia. The crash, which happened while the crew were attempting an emergency landing, took the lives of all eleven of the crew. There is a plaque at the Carrabelle Airport in memory of him and two others. His story reflects the deep local roots and ultimate sacrifice of so many Franklin County service members.
In the Veterans Exhibit, visitors will find a moving collection of artifacts offering a glimpse into their experiences both in uniform and at home. The museum extends a special thanks to the families of the honored veterans for sharing their stories and treasured items. Additionally, the museum is grateful for the support of Lisa Keith-Lucas and Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, whose invaluable collaboration helped make the exhibit possible. The Carrabelle History Museum warmly invites the public to visit and celebrate the legacy of these local heroes.
Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.
This exhibit is sponsored by C-Quarters Marina, Duke Energy, Shaun Donahoe Realty, and funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.
