While fireworks are still blazing through the skies, family members, friends and the Hudson Valley community have a patriotic tribute to the late Richard C. Dunn. 

Dunn was born in 1911 on his family farm in Greenville, N.Y. He was drafted into the Army in 1941, fought in The Battle of Normandy against the Germans and left an impressionable mark on his loved ones.

His youngest daughter, Betty Johnson, said she was only a baby when her father went off to war, yet recalls his dedication, courage and sacrifice for the United States of America.

“The Germans came in and killed them all and then took their dog tags,” Betty said. “But, my father survived…He ended up in a hospital in Paris, but the Army had no idea where he was or who he was or what was going on. I think that’s when my mother was notified.” 

Dunn’s platoon had been bombed during “D-Day,” and initially, his family members were unaware he survived. One day, Dunn’s wife, (Betty’s mother), opened a letter he wrote from a hospital in Paris.

Together, Betty and Eric, Dunn’s grandson, cherish his lessons and legacy while reflecting on his life.

Eric said he recalls some of his grandfather’s hardships during WWII, but will always remember him for his desire to give back.

“He was one that never really talked about his time in the service just because of the atrocities that they had to go through unfortunately,” Eric said. “But, when he did get out and was able to move on with his life, and build his family and stuff, he was very, very focused on making sure everybody always understood you had to always do good, you had to always do positive things.” 

In June, several state and local leaders joined the Town of Wallkill and Middletown community members to unveil a sign along Route 17 in Dunn’s honor.

Betty said if her father were alive today, he’d be honored and humbled for the recognition and support.

“He was just trying to make up for the horrible experiences that he went through,” Betty said. “And I think that was his way of dealing with it, just looking for the better part of life and the better part of people.”

Dunn was honorably discharged from the Army in 1946, reunited with his family and passed away in 1998.