Red, White & You: Honoring Rhode Island’s Military Heroes

Rhode Island has a storied tradition of military service, with countless individuals dedicating their lives to protecting our nation. While words can't fully capture the immense gratitude we feel for our servicemen and women, Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to highlight a few remarkable veterans and active-duty military members from our state. Read about their stories below, and if you know a military hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

1. John DeLeo

John DeLeo of Johnston was honored nearly 80 years after serving aboard the USS Missouri during Japan’s surrender in World War II. At just 17, DeLeo enlisted in the Navy and witnessed one of history’s most significant moments on September 2, 1945, in Tokyo Bay. U.S. Senator Jack Reed recently presented DeLeo with long-overdue military honors in a special ceremony, awarding him the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, the World War II Victory Medal and more. Reed praised DeLeo as a “hometown hero” whose service helped shape the course of history. DeLeo, who the USS Missouri Memorial curator also interviewed, plans to participate in the 80th anniversary of the surrender in 2025. Read more here.

2. Arthur Medeiros

Arthur Medeiros, a World War II veteran and centenarian from Bristol, is one of the state’s most decorated living combat veterans and a survivor of both D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. Medeiros — who earned honors including the Silver Star, Bronze Star, three Purple Hearts and the Combat Infantry Badge — participated in several major campaigns across Europe and insisted on returning to battle even after being wounded in Normandy. He fought bravely through the war’s deadliest battles, including the Ardennes Offensive, and was injured again in March 1945 when his military jeep was attacked. He returned to Normandy in 2024 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Read more here.

3. Rachael Garcia

Rachael Garcia, an Air Force veteran and Iraq War turret gunner, has spent over a decade helping fellow veterans transition to civilian life. In recognition of her dedication, she was named the 2021 Woman Veteran of the Year by the Providence VA Regional Office. Garcia also made history as the VFW State Commander for Rhode Island and has led several initiatives that support local veterans and their families. Her leadership and advocacy have been praised by leaders, noting her integrity, commitment to others and dedication to bettering the Rhode Island community. Read more here.

4. Air Force Lt. Col. John “Jack” McGee

In 2024, the Rhode Island Aviation Hall of Fame (RIAHOF) honored several individuals for their contributions to aviation, including retired Air Force Lt. Col. John "Jack" McGee. McGee, a Cranston native, served as a B-17 bomber pilot during World War II, completing 35 combat missions over Europe. His bravery and skill earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with multiple oak leaf clusters. After the war, McGee continued to serve in the Air Force Reserve and became an advocate for veterans' affairs in Rhode Island. His induction into the RIAHOF highlights his enduring legacy in both military aviation and community service. Read more here.

5. Lt. Commander Lynn “Skip” Carter II

Lt. Cmdr. Lynn "Skip" Carter II, a 2023 inductee into the Rhode Island Aviation Hall of Fame, is a distinguished Navy fighter pilot and commercial aviator. A graduate of East Providence High School and the U.S. Naval Academy, Carter flew F-8 Crusader combat missions over Vietnam, earning multiple Air Medals and Commendation Medals with combat “V.” After retiring from the Navy, he joined Atlas Air, piloting 747s globally until his mandatory retirement at age 60. Carter's career exemplifies a lifelong dedication to aviation and service. Read more here.

Do you know a veteran or active military member who deserves recognition? We’d love to hear their story! Click here to nominate them for a chance to be featured on Patch!