August Veteran Honors Chief Warrant Officer Ronald S. Plourde

Honoring a Veteran's Legacy: The 71st Lights for Peace Flag at Fort Taber

During the month of August, the 71st Lights for Peace flag will be raised at the Fort Taber - Fort Rodman Military Museum, honoring the memory of Chief Warrant Officer Ronald S. Plourde, a Vietnam Veteran who dedicated over two decades to the United States Navy.

Ronald was born on March 20, 1938, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, as the son of Sylvio J. and Helen (McAloon) Plourde. He spent his early years in North Dartmouth and graduated from Greater New Bedford Vocational High School in 1956. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy on March 27, 1956, beginning a long and distinguished career.

Plourde served aboard the USS New Jersey (BB-62), one of the most decorated battleships in Navy history. This vessel played a significant role in multiple conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and various Middle Eastern operations. His service on this iconic ship marked a pivotal chapter in his military journey.

In May 1968, the USS New Jersey set sail from Philadelphia, passing through the Panama Canal into the Pacific for the first time in 15 years. She arrived at her new home port of Long Beach, California. Just weeks later, on September 5, 1968, she set out again for war, making a stop at Pearl Harbor where she was visited by Admiral John S. McCain Jr., father of future Senator John S. McCain III, who had been shot down and captured during the war.

The New Jersey arrived in Vietnam on September 29, 1968, and quickly became a critical asset in the conflict. On September 30, she bombarded Communist supply dumps and gun positions in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The following day, while supporting naval jets, an aircraft was shot down, and the New Jersey assisted in rescuing the crew. Throughout her deployment, she continued to bombard targets in southern North Vietnam, destroying bunkers, interdicting enemy logistics, and sinking eleven coastal supply ships.

By mid-October 1968, the New Jersey moved south to provide fire support for American troops in South Vietnam. During this time, over half a million U.S. troops were deployed, often facing ambushes from Communist forces. The presence of the “Big J” significantly boosted Marine morale, with Commandant Leonard Chapman later stating that “thousands of American lives were saved” due to her efforts.

From October 23, 1968, to April 1, 1969, the USS New Jersey provided continuous fire support, destroying enemy troops, rocket launchers, anti-aircraft sites, trenches, bunkers, tunnels, and supply dumps. On November 25-26, 1968, she destroyed or heavily damaged over 300 structures. Her 16-inch guns proved essential in targeting fortified positions that could not be reached by artillery or aircraft.

The New Jersey supported the First and Third Marine Divisions in amphibious and land assaults, firing continuously when Marine outposts were attacked. It was estimated that she saved 100 lives every day she was on station. After an eight-month cruise, the ship returned to Long Beach on May 5, 1968, having fired nearly twelve million pounds of shells in six months off Vietnam.

Plourde served in active-duty status for 16 years, 2 months, and 8 days before joining the U.S. Naval Reserve, where he continued to serve for another four years until his retirement in 1976 as a Chief Warrant Officer. He received the Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Ribbon for his service.

Beyond his military career, Plourde was a devoted volunteer at the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Museum. He also participated in Revolutionary War reenactments, portraying a British artilleryman. His replica cannon and uniform are now displayed at the museum. Additionally, he was a member of the New Bedford Rod and Gun Club and enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Ronald S. Plourde passed away on January 7, 2025, at the age of 86. Though he had no family, he left all of his military items to the Fort Taber - Fort Rodman Military Museum, ensuring his legacy is preserved.

Linda Ferreira, a local researcher, has been instrumental in highlighting the stories of area residents. American flags are provided by Empire Ford, and the staff at Fort Taber - Fort Rodman Museum raises them. Those interested in honoring a local veteran can contact Ferreira at lferreira@empirefordinc.com.