(KNZA)--Two Hiawatha High School graduates were among six former members inducted into the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame during a November 8 ceremony at Nickell Armory in Topeka.

Colonels Thomas M. Tritsch and James A. Patton were recognized for their distinguished military careers and years of service to the state and nation. Patton is a current Brown County resident.

Tritsch served 32 years in the Kansas National Guard, enlisting in 1970. During his career, he commanded several artillery units, including the 130th Field Artillery Brigade. He retired from military service in 2002.

Patton served 30 years in the Kansas National Guard, retiring as a colonel in 2001. Following his military career, he practiced law in Hiawatha, served as a municipal and district court judge, and spent 40 years as a Kansas high school football official.

Both men received numerous military awards and honors throughout their distinguished careers.