Tribute For A ‘Home Grown Hero’

To the Editor:

My name is Kate Dunn-Richmond. I am the wife if Thomas R. Richmond III, who was identified in the recent article “Is The Use Of Uncle Sam Patriotic, Or A Promotional Stunt?” I would like to thank Charlie Payne for erecting this Uncle Sam in support of my husband who is currently serving in Iraq. Tom has been a Newtown resident since 1973. I moved to Newtown in 1998.

I feel that George Benson needs to use my tax dollars more wisely, stop wasting time, and energy by making Mr Payne take down this patriotic, morale-boosting tribute! 1. Uncle Sam is an American icon; 2. This is a local treasure, that was refurbished by Mr Payne; 3. Uncle Sam was erected in support of a home grown hero! Honestly I cannot think of a better place to erect this tribute as my husband worked for John Payne, then Charlie Payne, since he was 12 years old! Seriously this is no stunt! Charlie and Tom have been friends since the age of 7. Charlie was best man in our wedding, and godfather to our eldest daughter. This is a show of patriotism for a lifelong friend who voluntarily went to serve his country!

I feel the need to clarify for John Voket that Tom is a resident of Newtown, He is a lieutenat on the Westport Fire Department and a first sergeant with the Connecticut National Guard who voluntarily deployed to Iraq last September. True, he was a graduate of Newtown High School Class of 1984, but beyond that he has been a volunteer firefighter at Hook & Ladder for a good 15 years, throughout high school and until just after he became a professional firefighter. I really wish you had checked your facts a little better.

Attached is a photo of my husband after being awarded the Iraqi Campaign medal and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. The JSCM can be earned by any service member who distinguishes themselves by meritorious achievement or service. It is approved for valor in a designated combat area. Tom is shown in this photo by BG Snow and SG Makay. Tom earned his medal by training the Iraqi Army medics, his job has been a combat advisor. He also took on a small project because he saw the need. This little project turned into Tom and his personal linguist making training DVDs for the Iraqi Army Fire Department. They did not know how to put on protective fire gear, SCBA, why fire burns, what type of retardant to use. The entire Iraqi Army Fire Department has benefited from his work. He went to make a difference and he did.

I am a proud Army wife, Charlie is a proud friend. Stop the madness! What’s next? Taking down the flag pole on Main Street because it obstructs the road?

Kate Dunn-Richmond

8 Bari Drive, Newtown                                               October 26, 2010