University of Virginia Library

WILLIAM A. VEST

One of Salem's best known and most popular
citizens is Mr. W. A. Vest, Town Sergeant. For a
number of years Mr. Vest was employed as a telegrapher
by the Norfolk
& Western Railway
Company, and the
manner in which he
performed his duties
won for him the esteem
of his associates and
the confidence of the
management. In the
June election he was
the candidate for the
office of Town Sergeant
in opposition to
Mr. E. R. Moore. It
was an active campaign
and both candidates
had many friends.
Mr. Vest, however, was
the winner, receiving a
substantial majority.
Since entering upon the discharge of his duties, Mr.
Vest has proven himself a most capable officer, a
man who knows how to exercise discrimination and
judgment, and who is at all times fearless. His
father before him had the reputation of being a man
of bravery, and from him the son inherited the courage
that has brought him to the front in the maintenance
of law and order in Salem. The position of
Town Sergeant is not an easy one to fill by any
means, for its duties are manifold and of the most
important character. Mr. Vest has met every problem
with intelligence and skill, and has given his
administration attention that has been highly satisfactory
to his constituents. The people of his town
have utmost confidence in him and predict that his
term of service will be creditable and honorable to
him.

Mr. Vest has a wife and several children, and they
make their home in Salem, where they have many
friends. He is a member of the Baptist Church. He
has been elected to the place of Town Sergeant for
two years, and his friends are satisfied that, if he
maintains his present record of efficiency, his reelection
is a foregone conclusion. In mingling with
his fellow men, Mr. Vest has a pleasant word for all
with whom he comes in contact. Pleasant in manner,
kind and thoughtful in his bearing towards
others, and an officer of ability, he has won a prominent
place in his community and has a well wisher
in every citizen.