Sterrett named Patriot of the Month

The James Monroe Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution at Paris has announces that Ronald L. Sterrett of Mexico has been named the September 2008 Patriot of the Month.  Sterrett served in the United States Army during World War II from Sept. 12, 1942, to Dec. 13, 1945.  He was a staff sergeant in Company A of the 51st Armored Infantry Battalion serving in Normandy, the Rhineland and Central Europe.  He received the following honors including World War II Victory Medal, Service Stripe, two  overseas Service Bars, American Campaign Medal, European-African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon With three  bronze battle stars, two  Purple Hearts, Combat Infantry Badge and Expert with M/1 rifle.
 In civilian life, Sterrett spent 40 years in teaching, coaching and school administration. He has been a member of several community organizations including AARP Coordinator, Audrain County Nutrition Board Chairman, Audrain County Housing Commission Chairperson, Sheltered Workshop Board and Officer, Audrain County elected representative to Silver Hair Legislature, a 15-year Kiwanis member and officer, First Christian Church Elder and choir member, member of retired teacher organizations in Illinois and Missouri, and lifetime member and Commander of the John J. Pershing Disabled American Veterans chapter.
 Sterrett and his wife, Mary Beth, have three children, 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. 
The James Monroe Chapter planned to award him a certificate of merit at their meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 27.