Throughout the US, there are a dozen “Macon”s and 20 “Atlanta”s – but only ONE Warner Robins! How did Warner Robins get its totally unique name?
Warner Robins was originally known as Wellston – you can still see vestiges of that name around town. And, in 1942, a brand new air force base was constructed in Wellston following America’s entry into World War II – but it was named Wellston Army Air Depot. So what changed???
The base’s first commander, Colonel Charles Thomas, wanted to honor his mentor, General Warner Robins, by naming the depot after him. BUT regulations prevented him from doing so – the rules stated that the base must be named after the nearest town.
Colonel Thomas was not one to back down easily! He rallied the community leaders and convinced them to rename the town of Wellston to Warner Robins. If you can’t change the rules, change the game!
The town officially became Warner Robins later that year, and the base was renamed after General Robins as well a month later – all thanks to one man’s tenacity and innovation!
Just think, we could have ended up alongside 5 other “Wellston”s in America. No, thanks! I’m proud of our origins and glad to stand out!
Let’s keep the fighting spirit and game-changing attitude of the Heart City alive. Remember, Warner Robins residents… you are one of a kind!
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