David Pearsall, author Son of Wake Island and World War II – Honor and Remembrance will be speaking at the LVCC on August 14th at 7 PM. Pearsall wrote his first book, Son of Wake Island about his father, the late John Edward Pearsall who was a Prisoner of War of the Japanese on Wake Island in the Pacific. Two weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 Pearsall’s father was captured by the Japanese on Wake Island and was held as a prisoner until his release four years later in September of 1945. As a result, he received the Purple Heart medal. J. Edward Pearsall returned to Virginia, Minnesota and later was elected as mayor of the city. He held that position for ten years from 1966 to 1976.

David Pearsall dedicated this book to all of the World War II Veterans from the Iron Range. His father was friends with many of the veterans from this area, including others who were POW’s during the war. In December 1985, the 40th reunion of their release David Pearsall was able to organize a reunion trip to Wake Island for the POW survivors and their families. Several of these survivors’ stories are included in his book. He also included historic documents and photos from the National Archives.

Now Pearsall is announcing his second book titled, World War II – Honor and Remembrance. This one is a tribute to the men and women who lived through World War II. He meticulously researched for this book to bring this global war to life through the voices of those who served, suffered, and survived. Please join us at the historical Lake Vermilion Cultural Center to hear about these two amazing books. A free will donation will be accepted at the door.

David Pearsall graduated from high school in Virginia, Minnesota. After finishing a year of college, he traveled to Europe and upon returning decided he wanted to see the world. This began a lifelong career in the travel industry. He opened his first travel agency in Virginia, Minnesota in 1976.

The Lake Vermilion Cultural Center is dedicated to community enrichment through education and the arts by offering quality programming and providing opportunities to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area. The summer programming at the LVCC is made possible by a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council. To learn more about the LVCC visit vermilionculturalcenter.org. The LVCC is located at 705 Main Street in Tower, MN.