Local Vietnam veteran honored for life-saving heroism

PARMA, Ohio (WJW) — A historical marker unveiled Friday, Sept. 25 honors the memory and legacy of a Parma native and Congressional Medal of Honor recipient.

Frank Herda served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. On June 29, 1968, he shielded his fellow soldiers from an enemy grenade blast, saving their lives.

He was 21 years old.

For his heroism, Herda was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest U.S. military decoration for valor. President Richard Nixon presented the medal on May 14, 1970, in the White House.

Herda died in 2023.

State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan led the historical marker project, made possible through financial support from American Legion Post 572 and community members.

“Frank Herda represents the very best of Parma and the very best of the American spirit,” Brennan is quoted in a news release. “This marker ensures that his story will remain a permanent part of the community he called home, and that future generations will know the name and sacrifice of this remarkable Ohio hero.”

Local veterans, community members and elected officials attended the ceremony at Parma Veterans Memorial Park, formerly known as State Road Park.

In addition to the historical marker, Brennan previously introduced House Bill 607 to designate a portion of state Route 94 (State Road) in Parma as the “Specialist Fourth Class Frank A. Herda, Medal of Honor Recipient, Memorial Highway.” The bill is awaiting further hearings.