FORT SILL, Okla. (Dec. 8, 2016) -- Members of 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery gathered at Kerwin Auditorium inside Snow Hall to induct two new members into the Wall of Heroes on Dec. 2.

The Wall of Heroes is a new initiative undertaken by the 2-20th FA that aims to honor and commemorate local, living veterans.

Gathered with their family members, former Marine Corps Sgt. John Woods and retired Army Sgt. 1st Class George Miller were honored for their selfless commitment and service during their time as service members. During the ceremony, audience members listened to stories of Miller's and Woods' time in service. Both men served in the Korean War.

In his remarks, Lt. Col. Damon Wells, 2-20th FA commander, reminded the audience that, "It is said old Soldiers never die, they just fade away.

"Our presence here is our way of saying we remember the sacrifices they have made and the courage it takes to defend the values of our country and the armed forces," said Wells.

Referencing George Orwell, Gen. George S. Patton and Theodore Roosevelt, the remarks made by Wells were touching and impacting. In lauding the efforts of Woods and Miller, Wells reminded those in the audience that both service members "possess a deeper understanding of the concept of selfless service and the nobility of sacrifice" through their terms of service with the military.

Enlisting in the Marine Reserve at the age of 18 in 1948, Woods has said that World War II was his motivation for joining the military. After completing basic training at Camp Lejeune, N.C., and advanced individual training, he served in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, a campaign during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged after his time in service and then worked at the Federal Aviation Administration in Oklahoma City.

Miller served in the Army for 22 years before retiring. He enlisted at the age of 17 and over the course of his career was stationed in Germany and Korea. Miller is a recipient of a Silver Star, Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. After serving in Korea, Miller attended military police training as well as the Army Career Counselor course. He ended his career as a recruiter and career counselor.

"The military drew out the best in them, instilling the high standards of diligence, discipline and loyalty. That is the bond that joins every veteran from every branch of service," said Wells.

Calling the ceremony a "meager tribute," Wells told the assembled crowd, "What these men have done, what they have sacrificed is beyond our means to repay. Sergeant First Class Miller and Sergeant Woods represent our history and our lineage."

Located inside Snow Hall, the Wall of Heroes is free and open to the public.