Submitted by Mallory Parker
A 6ft by 8ft painting was unveiled last Sunday at Patriot Café (1004 E. Dewey Ave.) to honor Gregory Scott (Wedel) Morales. Morales was missing for 10 months before his remains were discovered outside Ft. Hood in Texas.
Artists and siblings Edurne, Joaquin, and Lucia Lopez worked over the last year to complete this mural before traveling from Oklahoma City to present it to the Wedel Family. “I really want to honor all of the soldiers who have died in suspicious circumstances,” Edurne said. “Right now I have around 100 soldiers on my list to create paintings for their hometown.”
The mural shows his name as SPC Gregory Scott Wedel. Though Morales was his legal last name by marriage, the family requested he be memorialized by his family name.
Morales’ Mother Kim along with siblings and nieces, were among the first to see the painting, joined by Chad Cacy, the owner of Patriot Café. “I couldn’t imagine a more fitting place. He is a patriot” said the soldier’s mother.
“When I was first approached for this idea I instantly agreed,” Cacy said. What better place to honor an American soldier from our own town than a place called Patriot? I am happy to give a place of honor to a much deserving hero.”
The newest development in Morales’ case involves 24 additional bones found near the original site of his remains. The investigation continues.
