It has been eight years since Sgt. Justin Norton was killed in action in Iraq. To his family and friends, that dark day still seems like yesterday. It is a pain that no amount of time can heal. Norton grew up in the small, quiet city of Rainier, and the community still remembers its hometown hero. The city is also home to a memorial mural of the fallen soldier.

His friends still talk about their memories and what an amazing person Norton was. Even when faced with being deployed, he was the type of person who thought of others instead of himself. It was Norton's wish that if anything happened to him, a memorial scholarship should be set up in his name so that students could continue their education. To honor his final wish, his family established the Sgt. Justin Norton Memorial Scholarship.

Every year, high school seniors are selected from Rainier High School, Norton's alma mater, as well as Yelm High School. The scholarship is funded through fundraisers and private donations.

On Nov. 1, a Comedy Night will be held at the Indian Summer Golf and Country Club in Olympia to benefit the Sgt. Justin Norton Memorial Scholarship. The event features an impressive lineup, including Mike "Wally" Walter, who has performed in several clubs and casinos in Washington, Oregon and Nevada. He has also traveled to Kuwait and Iraq to entertain deployed servicemembers. Also in the lineup is Susan Jones, a comedienne who began her career in Tacoma and has more than 20 years of experience. Kermet Apio will also make an appearance. Apio has performed in numerous states and on television. The evening will also include a raffle, a dessert dash and a no-host bar. Guests must be 21 years of age and older.

While the family continues to grieve, they press on and strive to honor Norton's wish. They are always in attendance at scholarship fundraisers and are proud to continue awarding scholarships in his name.  

"With all the pain that I still have after losing Justin eight years ago, this comedy show will bring a smile to my face and a little peace in my heart," said Chris Warnock, Justin's mother.

It will be a night full of laughter and good company, and all for a great cause: to help ensure that Sgt. Justin Norton will never be forgotten.

Tickets are $25 per person; tables for 10 are also available. Scholarship donations are always welcome. For tickets, visit justinnorton.net. For more information, email fundraiser@justinnorton.net.