CAMDEN — A respected member of the community, a Vietnam Veteran, and a devoted father, Renny Parker was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame on Wednesday.

In a ceremony held at Camden High School, state Sen. Joseph A. Griffo, R-47, Rome, honored Parker’s life, work, and sacrifices.

Parker is a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam war, achieving the rank of sergeant E-5. Parker is a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device, Combat Infantry Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, three Overseas Bars, Bronze Star Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal, and Sharp Shooter M-14. Parker also earned a Purple Heart after being wounded on Feb. 1, 1968, during a search and destroy mission near Quang Tri City while serving as a rifleman with Company D, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 12th Cavalry.

“Mr. Parker has remained committed to America’s principles of liberty and freedom,” Griffo said. “And he ensured that this country remained dedicated to its ideals. He was selfless and honorably served his country in Vietnam. He has and continues to make it a priority to support veterans and their families. He’s part of several veteran organizations in our region.”

Parker is a life member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 944. Griffo said Parker has been an instrumental part of the CNY Chapter 490 Military Order of the Purple Heart, donating his time supporting both organizations. In addition, he’s helped raise thousands of dollars for the nonprofit “Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors” while running the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. — and with his wife, Donna, has worked to raise money for injured war veterans through a memorial fund and a charity golf tournament.

Their dedication comes from not just a place of pride and duty but also a place of hurt — the Parkers are gold star parents.

“Renny and his wife Donna are parents of four children. Their son, [U.S. Marine Sgt. Elisha Parker graduated from Camden High School in 2002,” Dr. Ravo Root, superintendent of the Camden School District, said. Sgt. Parker was assigned to the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Pendleton, Calif. He was on his third tour of duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the time of his death. 

Parker ran the Marine Corps Marathon in memory of his son, and the memorial fund and charity golf tournament carry their son’s name.

“Renny Parker is committed to helping gold star families, ensuring the memories of fallen servicemen and women never fade,” Griffo said. “I want to thank Renny for his service to his nation and his community on behalf of so many.”

Parker took to the podium after being presented a plaque representing his induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame to raucous applause and a standing ovation.

Parker thanked the senator and everyone for his induction into the Hall of Fame, saying he was thankful and humbled. The Vietnam veteran took a moment to steady himself, choking back tears before saying, “I receive this honor on behalf of all military patriots who gave their lives in service to their country.”