Gabe Stark/Staff Photo
Living Purple Heart Recipients as well as family members of past Purple Heart Veterans honored by The Daughters of the American Revolution

Gabe Stark
The Trenton Telegraph

The local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution held a ceremony this week dedicated to honoring veterans, with special recognition for Purple Heart recipients. The event, which coincided with the organization’s anniversary, highlighted the significance of the Purple Heart medal—the nation’s oldest military honor, first established by General George Washington in 1782.

This year’s honorees included living Purple Heart recipients Jerry Davis and Tony Ralston, as well as several veterans who were recognized posthumously.

Jerry Davis, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970 and attained the rank of sergeant, shared harrowing stories of his time in combat. Davis was wounded twice, once while aiding a fellow soldier in a minefield, and again when a mortar round struck his position at night. Despite his injuries, Davis continued to serve, later returning home to his family and pursuing a career at Trenton Foods.

Tony Ralston, a retired Air Force Master Sergeant, was also honored for his Vietnam service. Ralston was wounded during the 1968 Tet Offensive while manning a bunker, earning him the Purple Heart. His military career spanned both active duty and reserves, and he received numerous awards for valor and service. Ralston later served as fire chief in Trenton and remains an active community leader.

The DAR also remembered veterans who have passed, presenting certificates to the families of Charles Davidson, Jack Dolan, Robert Dean Lewis, Wesley Midget, Ira Pinnock, Virgil Stewart, and Marion Thompson. Each story illustrated the courage and sacrifice of America’s servicemen. For example, Jack Dolan, a scout sniper during the Battle of Okinawa, survived two wartime wounds and struggled with post-traumatic stress after returning home. Wesley Midget, a Navy pilot, was killed in action and buried at sea during World War II, while Robert Dean Lewis lost his life in Vietnam in 1969.

The ceremony concluded with a wreath dedication and prayers in memory of all veterans, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The DAR chapter emphasized their ongoing commitment to honoring the legacy of America’s heroes and ensuring their stories are never forgotten.