1. Passing of Colonel Roger H.C. Donlon, Medal of Honor recipient
2. Local hero Colonel Roger Donlon mourned after his passing.
Cause Death – Obituary News :
Remembering Colonel (Retired) Roger H.C. Donlon: A Local Hero and Medal of Honor Recipient
Leavenworth, KS – The community mourns the passing of a true hero, Colonel (Retired) Roger H.C. Donlon, who breathed his last breath on January 25, 2024, at the age of 89. The news of his demise comes as a profound loss, just five days before he would have celebrated his 90th birthday.
A Life of Valor and Courage
Colonel Donlon’s remarkable life was marked by unwavering dedication and exceptional bravery. As a recipient of the prestigious Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States, his legacy will forever be etched in the annals of American history.
Born in humble beginnings, Colonel Donlon grew up with an unyielding sense of patriotism and a desire to serve his country. He joined the United States Army and quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his leadership skills and unparalleled bravery.
A Heroic Act of Valor
Colonel Donlon’s defining moment came during the Vietnam War, where he displayed extraordinary heroism and selflessness. On July 6, 1964, as the commander of the Special Forces Detachment A-726, he found himself under attack by a large Viet Cong force at Nam Dong, a remote outpost.
Despite being heavily outnumbered and sustaining severe injuries, Colonel Donlon fearlessly led his men in defending the base. Throughout the intense battle, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire, inspiring his comrades to fight with unwavering determination.
Colonel Donlon’s leadership and valor in the face of grave danger were instrumental in repelling the enemy assault and ultimately saving countless lives. His actions during that fateful night earned him the Medal of Honor, a testament to his indomitable spirit and extraordinary courage.
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond his military achievements, Colonel Donlon’s impact extended far beyond the battlefield. As a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he instilled the values of honor, integrity, and resilience in his family and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Following his retirement from the military, Colonel Donlon dedicated his life to public service, striving to make a positive difference in his community. He embodied the true essence of a hero, consistently putting the needs of others before his own and embodying the values that define the American spirit.
A Nation in Mourning
The news of Colonel Donlon’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him and the millions who have been inspired by his story. The community of Leavenworth, KS, where he resided, stands united in grief, reflecting on the immeasurable contributions he made to our nation.
As the nation mourns the loss of this local hero and Medal of Honor recipient, we remember Colonel (Retired) Roger H.C. Donlon as a beacon of courage, integrity, and selflessness. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the extraordinary sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform.
Though we may not know the precise cause of his passing, we can take solace in the fact that Colonel Donlon lived a life filled with honor, purpose, and unwavering dedication to his country. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever be cherished as a symbol of American heroism..
We mourn the passing of Colonel (Retired) Roger H.C. Donlon, a local hero and a recipient of the Medal of Honor. COL (R) Donlon passed away in Leavenworth, KS on January 25, 2024, at the age of 89, only five days before his 90th birthday. pic.twitter.com/wRhMkBwkET
— US Army School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS) (@us_sams) January 27, 2024
Condolences
@us_sams said We mourn the passing of Colonel (Retired) Roger H.C. Donlon, a local hero and a recipient of the Medal of Honor. COL (R) Donlon passed away in Leavenworth, KS on January 25, 2024, at the age of 89, only five days before his 90th birthday.
1. “Passing of Colonel Roger H.C. Donlon, local hero and Medal of Honor recipient”
2. “Leavenworth mourns the loss of Colonel (Retired) Roger H.C. Donlon, a true hero”.
