Village Of Mokena: U.S. Marine Veteran, Mokena Resident Joseph Kerke Recognized

MOKENA, IL — Mokena resident and U.S. Marine veteran Joseph Kerke was recognized and shared about his recent experience on Honor Flight Chicago #102 at the Mokena Village Board’s July 11 meeting. Mr. Kerke joined 118 other veterans from World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War era on the flight.

Mr. Kerke’s lengthy military service began in 1972, when he entered active service in the U.S. Marines and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. Released from active duty as a 1st Lieutenant in June, 1975, he later served from December, 1979 to October, 1984 as a member of the reserve artillery unit, Battery K, 4th Battalion, 14th Marines, in Joliet, where as a Battery Commander from 1982-84 he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. He later continued his service in the Individual Ready Reserve, being honorably discharged as a Lieutenant Colonel in June, 2011.

A retired high school chemistry teacher, Mr. Kerke’s career beyond the military included stints at Harlan High School, Simeon Vocational High School, and Kenwood Academy, all within the Chicago Public Schools system. He finished his career at Hillcrest High School in Country Club Hills.

Mr. Kerke and his wife Hattie have been residents of The Oaks subdivision since 2011.

This press release was produced by the Village of Mokena. The views expressed here are the author’s own.