Jack Everett named Tuscarawas County Veteran of the Year

Jack Everett was named Veteran of the Year May 12 at the American Legion Post 494 in Sugarcreek.

Everett was born in Dennison Nov. 1, 1947, and has been a resident of Tuscarawas County his entire life.

He graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 1965 and attended Ohio State University for one year before being drafted into the U.S. Army in July 1967. After basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, he was assigned to the 4th Infantry Division in Pleiku, Vietnam. He served with the Scout Platoon of Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 21st Infantry.

On March 25, 1968, during a road-clearing operation in the Republic of Vietnam, Everett’s platoon came under attack from a large force of Viet Cong. Despite the danger, he provided cover fire for himself and fellow soldiers while carrying a wounded soldier to safety. He then returned through enemy fire to another armored personnel carrier while maintaining fire cover. His actions saved lives and prevented further casualties.

Everett was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. His conduct reflected the highest traditions of military service and brought great credit to himself and the U.S. Army.

He also sustained injuries from enemy action and received two Purple Hearts, along with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and Sharpshooter Badge.

Everett was honorably discharged and medically retired from the U.S. Army March 12, 1969, from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Following his military service, Everett continued to support veterans and veteran organizations. He has been a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars for more than 50 years.

In 2008, Jack was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor. He served as president of the Tuscarawas County Veterans Service Office from Jan. 1, 2003, until Dec. 25, 2025, serving 25 years.