“I was saddened to learn of the passing of a very distinguished Prescott resident, Jerry Welna, a World War II veteran who survived 17 engagements including the D-Day invasion of Normandy. Jerry served as a crewman aboard the USS Barton, a destroyer providing close support for the US Army Ranger Group, leading to their capture Pointe du Hoc. He later served in the South Pacific on the USS Sterett during the battle of Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle of Okinawa. Later, his ship survived a Japanese Kamikaze suicide pilot who crashed his plane into the side of the ship.
He earned six battle medals, five additional battle stars, the U.S. Navy Combat Ribbon and the Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation badge for his service in the liberation of the Philippine Republic from the Japanese. He also has three citations from the French government, including the French Medal of Honor, all awarded for his service in the liberation of France from the Nazis beginning in June 6, 1944. He was the author of “A Destroyer Sailor’s War: The True Story of a Destroyer Sailor’s Life at Sea During World War II,” based on his experiences from June 25, 1944.
Jerry was a longtime resident of Prescott. I first met him about nine years ago, and we became close friends. In September 2023, I was honored to speak as we celebrated is 100th birthday. Jerry’s story served as an inspiration to me, as I am sure it is to all citizens. He will be greatly missed.”
Note: Jerry’s story was captured on the website www.visionofvets.org where you can learn more about his extraordinary life and service to our nation.
