Sailor from Poughkeepsie Named September Honor-A-Vet Recipient

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — The life and service of U.S. Navy Airman Apprentice Donald Herring, Sr., a lifelong Poughkeepsie resident and Vietnam veteran, were celebrated Thursday at Dutchess County’s “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremony, held at VFW Post 170. The monthly program, hosted by County Executive Sue Serino and the Office of Veterans Affairs, recognizes the sacrifices of deceased local veterans.

Remembering a Life of Service

Born on March 21, 1955, in Poughkeepsie, Herring enlisted in the U.S. Navy at just 17 years old, in April 1972. He served during the Vietnam War as a 632 Ordnance Mechanic and E2 Airman Apprentice with the VF-31 “Tomcatters” Fighter Squadron at Naval Air Station Oceana.

For his service, Herring earned several decorations, including:

The Vietnam Service Medal
The Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon
The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
The National Defense Service Medal

He was honorably discharged in June 1973, returning to his hometown to begin a new chapter of life.

A Family Man and Community Pillar

Though he carried the invisible wounds of war, Herring built a meaningful life centered on family and community. Known for his skills as a gifted mechanic, he was often called upon to help neighbors and friends.

He married and raised four children, eventually becoming the proud grandfather of 17 grandchildren. Devoted to his family and his five siblings—two of whom also served in the military—Herring left behind a legacy of loyalty and love.

Those who knew him best recall his passion for music, particularly the oldies of the 1950s and 1960s, which often filled his garage while he worked. Herring passed away on November 23, 2019, leaving behind a life defined by service, generosity, and dedication to others.

Honored by County Leaders

County Executive Sue Serino praised Herring not only as a veteran but as a beloved figure in Poughkeepsie.

“Donny Herring was so much more than a decorated veteran,” Serino said. “He was a devoted father, a gifted mechanic, and a quiet force of kindness in his community. From the flight decks of Vietnam to the heart of Poughkeepsie, Donny lived a life of service and love. Dutchess County is privileged to celebrate his life and legacy through our ‘Honor-A-Veteran’ ceremonies.”

Adam Roche, Director of the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs, emphasized that Herring’s impact extended beyond his military record.

“Airman Apprentice Herring’s legacy endures not only in the medals he earned, but in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the city he never stopped giving back to,” Roche said. “He was a hometown hero whose memory continues to inspire.”

Honors Presented to His Family

During the ceremony, Herring’s family received multiple tributes symbolizing his service and the gratitude of the community. These included:

A U.S. flag flown in Dutchess County for 30 days in his memory
A proclamation from County Executive Serino
A memory box from Mental Health America of Dutchess County Vet2Vet
A Veterans Challenge Coin presented by Commander Nate Grant of the Dutchess County Honor-A-Veteran Committee
The New York State Senate Liberty Medal, awarded by Senator Rob Rolison
A handmade quilt from Mental Health America of Dutchess County’s Veterans Programs’ Quilts2Honor initiative

Senator Rolison underscored the importance of honoring veterans like Herring. “Though he returned from war with invisible wounds, he lived with heart and generosity,” Rolison said. “It was with profound respect that I awarded him the Liberty Medal, our state’s highest civilian honor, for a life defined by courage and compassion.”

A Continuing Tradition of Remembrance

Dutchess County’s Honor-A-Veteran program holds ceremonies from April through November, recognizing deceased veterans from across the county. Events are typically held on or near the third Thursday of each month at 9 a.m.

The next ceremony will take place on October 16 in the City of Poughkeepsie.

Community members are encouraged to nominate veterans for future recognition. Eligible honorees must:

Be deceased for at least 30 days
Have served in the U.S. Armed Forces with an honorable discharge, been listed as missing in action, or died while serving
Have served during wartime or peacetime, with no restrictions on service dates or length of service

Applications require a copy of the veteran’s military separation papers, obituary, and death certificate. They may be submitted online, via email, or in person to the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs in Pleasant Valley.

For more information, families can call 845-486-2060 or visit the county’s website.

A Lasting Legacy

As the Honor-A-Veteran ceremony closed, Herring was remembered not only for his medals and military service but for his devotion to family, his love of music, and his generosity of spirit. His life continues to serve as an example of resilience and compassion for both his community and future generations.

“May we all strive to live a life of purpose as Donny Herring did,” Roche said.