(File photo) Mark and Betty Gatewood accept an award on behalf of Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame inductee, the late Vernon L. Gatewood, at the Tower Event and Conference Center in Marietta on Nov. 1.

Ten Washington County veterans whose service and lifelong dedication to the community exemplify honor and patriotism were inducted into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame during a ceremony Nov. 1 at the Tower Event and Conference Center in Marietta.

The annual program, presented by the Washington County Veterans Service Commission, recognized local men and women whose military service was marked by valor and whose post-service contributions have strengthened communities across the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Sgt. 1st Class Tyler D. Witham

Witham served in the U.S. Army from 1988 to 2008, deploying across multiple combat zones, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq. As a CBRN defense specialist with the elite 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment — the “Night Stalkers” — he supported Tier-One units in missions pursuing high-value targets after Sept. 11.

His pioneering work developing protective systems for aircrews and aircraft continues to influence modern tactics. After retiring, Witham served as adjutant of American Legion Post 64, where he modernized the post’s operations with an innovative membership database to improve outreach and support for local veterans.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Tyler Witham, center, receives his induction into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame.

Sgt. Thomas E. Kukulka

Kukulka served in the U.S. Army from 1977 to 1980 and in the Army Reserves until his retirement in 2000, excelling in multiple military specialties and supporting humanitarian missions abroad.

Following his service, he became a Veterans Service Officer, earning full accreditation from national organizations and creating vital programs such as providing gas cards and transportation for veterans in need. Alongside his wife, Carol, he organized Christmas donation drives and meal programs for veterans and families. An active member of American Legion Post 64, he continues to assist veterans coping with PTSD and long-term care challenges.

Master Sgt. Michael E. Dye

Dye, a decorated Air Force veteran, completed three combat tours in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. His honors include five Air Force Commendation Medals, the Air Force Achievement Medal and the Meritorious Unit Award.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Thomas Kukula, right, was inducted into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 1 at the Tower Event and Conference Center in Marietta.

Since retiring, Dye has devoted decades to service through the Belpre Area Veterans Organization, where he has volunteered for more than 15 years, serving as treasurer and a member of the honor guard and rifle team. He also replaces flags and markers at Rockland Cemetery, helps maintain the Belpre Veterans Honor Walk and participates in food drives and flag etiquette programs in schools.

Command Master Chief Eric T. Clark

Clark served in the U.S. Navy from 1985 to 2015, completing multiple combat tours in Kuwait and Iraq during a decorated 30-year career. His commendations include three Meritorious Service Medals, four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and the Coast Guard Special Operations Service Medal.

Following retirement, Clark became president of the Belpre Area Veterans Organization, leading projects such as the Belpre Veterans Honor Walk, cemetery flag replacement efforts, local food drives and school programs recognizing veterans. His leadership has strengthened the organization’s outreach and preserved its commitment to community engagement.

Petty Officer 2nd Class James A. Dukas

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Michael Dye, center, was inducted into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 1.

Dukas served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946 during World War II, completing multiple Western Pacific tours aboard the USS Arthur Middleton and USS Klondike. His honors include the Pacific Theater Ribbon with three stars, the American Theater Ribbon, the World War II Victory Medal and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two stars.

After returning home, Dukas remained active in veterans’ advocacy, serving as commander of the Lower Salem American Legion Post 495. He inspired civic engagement among youth, helping numerous young men attend American Legion Buckeye Boys State and tirelessly to promoted patriotism and community involvement.

Pfc. Larry A. Britton

Britton, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, continued to live by the Marine Corps values of honor, courage and commitment long after his service. As an active member of the Marine Corps League Sgt. Bob O’Malley Detachment 1436, he has held multiple leadership roles and contributed to nearly every organizational activity.

Britton volunteers regularly for honor guard ceremonies, food drives and veteran outreach programs. He also helped establish Gold Star Park, visits veterans in nursing homes, and conducts POW/MIA and flag-etiquette education for local schools and the Washington County Library. His dedication exemplifies service beyond the uniform.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Eric Clark, right, was inducted into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 1.

Specialist 4 Gary A. Worstell

Worstell served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959, earning the Pershing Division Dispatch Badge and the Good Conduct Medal. His community service spans more than two decades as a volunteer driver for the Washington County Veterans Service Commission, transporting countless veterans to medical appointments.

Through AmeriCorps, he helped provide more than 100,000 meals to local families and maintained Reno Christian Church. His volunteerism extended to Red Cross fundraisers, Halloween in the Park, the Franciscan meal program and the O’Neill Center’s bingo activities. He also served as vice president of the RSVP Advisory Council.

Sgt. Ronald

“Greg” Nohe

(Photo by Gwen Sour) James Dukas, right, was inducted into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame.

Nohe served in the U.S. Army from 1982 to 1987 as a military police officer and jumpmaster, earning two Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, the Parachutist Badge, the Jumpmaster Badge and the Jungle Expert Badge. He was part of a unit recognized as the best military police company in the U.S. Army.

After his service, Nohe joined the Marietta Police Department, dedicating 29 years to public safety and rising to the rank of captain. His leadership and professionalism earned the department’s Award of Merit and numerous commendations for major investigations that enhanced community safety and reduced violent crime.

Cpl. Kreig A. Worstell

Worstell served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1984 to 1988, including overseas tours in Japan and Korea. After his service, he became a certified EMT and paramedic, working as a volunteer firefighter, assistant chief and later captain of his department.

He earned numerous honors, including Firefighter of the Year and the prestigious Fitting Award from Marietta Memorial Hospital for excellence in patient care. He also supported American Legion fundraisers, community food programs and local agricultural initiatives through Canebec Farms, continuing a life of public service and volunteerism.

2nd Lt. Vernon L. Gatewood (Posthumous)

Gatewood served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1945 as a bombardier on a B-24 Liberator during World War II. He flew 10 missions targeting German military and industrial sites before his aircraft was shot down on his 11th mission. Captured after parachuting from 20,000 feet, he survived a 600-mile forced march across Germany — known as the Death March — before being liberated.

After returning home, Gatewood built a successful career with Marietta Concrete Company, remained active in the Rotary Club and his church, volunteered at Marietta Memorial Hospital, and authored a book for middle-school students to inspire patriotism. His family accepted the award on his behalf.

The Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame honors local veterans who demonstrate exceptional military service, community engagement and leadership. The organization’s mission is to instill patriotism, motivate civic service and preserve the legacy of Washington County’s distinguished men and women in uniform.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Larry Britton, right, received his induction to the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 1.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Gary Worstell, center, was inducted into the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 1.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Kreig Worstell accepted his induction to the Washington County Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 1 at the Tower Event and Conference Center in Marietta.

(File photo) Greg Nohe speaks at the Hope for the Holidays candlelight vigil in 2023 about the importance of mental health and encouraging others to speak up if they are struggling.