VERSAILLES – The Private First Class John Wayne Richard Highway Dedication was held on Saturday, September 25, with many family, friends, dignitaries, and veterans attending the memorial service at Versailles’ K of C Hall.
“Fort GreeneVille Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, a United States of America Vietnam War Commemorative Partner, would like to express our condolences to the family of Private First Class Richard for the ultimate sacrifice he gave to his country,” said DAR Vice Regent Debbie Nisonger.
John Wayne Richard was born to Leroy and Dorotha Richard on October 17, 1949, and lived his entire life in Versailles, OH. He was the third child of his parents, having an older brother and sister, Jim and Name, and later, a sister and brother, Kathy and Fred. John was a kind and loving son and brother who loved to be with his brothers, sisters, and friends.
John was a 1968 graduate of Versailles High School and worked at Subler Transfer on Main Street washing trucks after school.
John joined the U.S. Army in October 1968, left for basic training on October 28, 1968, and left for Vietnam on April 6, 1969. He lost his life along with four of his comrades on May 21, 1969, in Long An Province, southwest of Saigon, on the south bank of Vam Co Dong River, being attacked on three sides with the river on the fourth side while in their night position.
With the support of the Fort GreeneVille Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the tireless efforts of Debbie Nisonger, Ohio House Bill 50, sponsored by State Representative Angela King and signed by Governor Mike DeWine on July 1, 2025, was enacted.
As master of Ceremonies, former State Representative Jim Buchy introduced Debbie Nisonger, Vice Regent of the Fort Greene Ville Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), who addressed the family and those in attendance.
“Fort GreeneVille DAR is honored to be a part of this memorial highway dedication journey that the family bestowed upon us,” Nisonger said. We are truly honored. This is a dedication that we proudly instill upon our community to remember and never to forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation.”
“On behalf of a grateful Nation and the Department of War, Fort GreeneVille Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is proud to recognize and honor your loved one, and your family for the significant sacrifices made in the name of freedom and democracy over the years,” Nisonger added. “Thank you for your example of grace, dignity, and courage. Our Nation is forever indebted to you and extends its deepest respect and admiration.”
