Funeral today for three-war Army veteran Command Sgt. Maj. Plumley

Funeral services for Command Sgt. Maj. Basil L. Plumley, a veteran of three wars, are today at the Infantry Center Chapel on Fort Benning's main post.

Plumley, 92, died Wednesday at Columbus Hospice.

The funeral is at 1 p.m., followed by interment at the Main Post Cemetery. After burial, a reception will be held at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center.

Plumley served more than 32 years in the Army, retiring in 1974 with the highest rank available to an enlisted man. He fought in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

His role in the Vietnam War was brought to life by actor Sam Elliott in the 2002 movie "We Were Soldiers." The movie was based on a book by Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and war correspondent Joe Galloway.

Plumley was the sergeant major of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, at the Vietnam Battle of Ia Drang in 1965. He served under Moore in that battle.

Plumley's family received visitors Monday at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road in Columbus.

This story was originally published October 12, 2012 at 10:54 PM with the headline "Funeral today for three-war Army veteran Command Sgt. Maj. Plumley."