Utica, NY – Yesterday, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon presented a special citation to Donald R. Gregory, a distinguished 95-year-old Korean War Veteran, in recognition of his extraordinary service to our nation and community.

Mr. Gregory served honorably as a Corporal in the United States Army. He carried out critical duties as a Radio Operator in the distinguished 14th Regiment, known as the “Golden Dragons,” of the 25th Division during the Korean War. In this vital role, he maintained essential lines of communication under the most demanding and dangerous conditions. His steadfast coordination of defensive and support operations during a period of exceptionally fierce fighting along the 38th parallel provided literal lifelines for his fellow soldiers.

“Mr. Gregory represents the very best of what it means to serve,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “Today, we celebrate his remarkable service and courage in the defense of our nation and of his fellow soldiers, and honor the sacrifice of all Korean War veterans”.

The Service of the 14th Regiment During the Korean War:

• The 14th Infantry Regiment, nicknamed the “Golden Dragons,” has a distinguished history dating back to the Civil War.

• Assigned to the 25th Infantry Division in August 1951, the 14th Infantry immediately entered a grueling period of combat.

• For nearly two years, the regiment occupied defensive positions and conducted aggressive combat patrols along the 38th parallel at places like Heartbreak Ridge, the Punchbowl, and Porkchop Hill.

• In May 1953, the 14th Infantry Regiment successfully bore the brunt of a massive Chinese assault on the Nevada Complex near Seoul alongside Turkish allies, holding their ground during one of the war’s final major battles.

• The regiment’s service in Korea earned five campaign streamers, a Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation for gallantry at Munsan-Ni, and three Medals of Honor.

For his service, Mr. Gregory earned numerous decorations, including the Combat Infantry Badge, the Korean Service Medal with Bronze Service Star(s), the United Nations Service Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal for Japan. These medals reflect his distinguished service during a conflict often called “The Forgotten War”.

The Korean War, fought from 1950 to 1953, saw more than 1.7 million Americans serve. Nearly 37,000 Americans made the ultimate sacrifice, and more than 100,000 were wounded.

“Veterans like Mr. Gregory reminds us that freedom is never free,” Assemblywoman Buttenschon added. “Their service, sacrifice, and the values of courage, duty, and selfless devotion they embody, continue to inspire us all. It is our solemn responsibility to ensure that their contributions are never forgotten”.

Mr. Gregory’s life of service extends far beyond his military career. For decades, he has demonstrated exemplary virtue and humility, serving as an inspiration and a living testament to the enduring strength of character. Today’s ceremony serves as both a tribute to Mr. Gregory’s individual achievements and a reminder of our collective obligation to honor all veterans.

About Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon 

Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon proudly represents New York’s 119th Assembly District, encompassing the cities of Utica and Rome as well as surrounding towns in Oneida County.

• She is a lifelong educator and former Dean of Public Service and Emergency Preparedness at Mohawk Valley Community College.

• She serves as Chair of the Committee on Small Business and as a member of the Agriculture, Education, Higher Education, and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.