Korean War Veteran Harry L Winfield-Honored for His Service

Ninety-one-year-old Korean War veteran Harry L. Winfield was recently honored by Hospice of the Western Reserve (HWR) with a virtual veterans recognition ceremony. Conducting the ceremony was long-time volunteer Bob Zonneville, a decorated World War II combat veteran. Bob served as a Staff Sergeant in the Army’s 8th Infantry Division and is a founding member of HWR’s Peaceful and Proud veterans committee.

Following a stirring video of “America the Beautiful,” Bob thanked Harry for serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Harry’s daughter, Ruby, had the privilege of honoring her father by pinning an Ohio Veterans Partnership pin to his clothing. He also received a commemorative certificate honoring his military service.

A Family Tradition of Service
Corporal Winfield served during the Korean War as a high-speed radio operator in the U.S. Army Signal Corps (USASC), a branch that creates and manages communications and information systems.  As a member of the 101st Signal Battalion stationed just outside Seoul, South Korea, he sent and received high security messages using Morse Code.

Harry comes from a family with a proud tradition of military service. The values of honor, integrity and patriotism run deep in his veins. He credits his oldest brother, William Joseph, for instilling a deep love of country at a very young age. “He had a huge influence on me,” Harry said. “He served in the U.S. Army artillery during World War II. When he returned, Herbert was next, serving in the Korean War. I was the youngest and last of the brothers to serve. There was always a Winfield serving the country. I am very proud of that.”

Harry loves poetry and said that also played a significant role in strengthening his appreciation for history and the values of patriotism. He can still recite from heart one of his favorite poems: “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. 

“I love America. It’s my home,” he said. “It was an honor for me to serve. “It’s vital that the values of patriotism be preserved and it’s important to start at a very young age. I have passed these values along to my own children.”