A Newton Community High School graduate and highly decorated Vietnam veteran was recently honored for his military service and the legacy he has left with family, friends and fellow veterans.
Jackie Wayne “Jack” Steinman was born December 8, 1949, in Hardinville, Illinois, the son of Joseph Henry and Rosa Ellen (Rich) Steinman. He married Sandy Staley on August 24, 1978.
Steinman graduated from Newton Community High School with the Class of 1968. He entered the United States Army on May 29, 1968, and served during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged on March 15, 1971.
During his tour in Vietnam, Steinman was awarded numerous military decorations for his actions during the war. His awards included the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, Air Medal with six awards, Army Commendation Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters and the “V” Device, Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Letter “V,” National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star and one Silver Service Star, Combat Infantryman Badge, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Sharpshooter Badge, Civil Action Honor Medal and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
Steinman’s service in Vietnam is also remembered in a poem titled “The Ballad of Willow Hill,” written by W. Andrew Taylor.
The ballad recounts a May 1969 firefight involving the “DLIC” troop and describes a platoon surrounded by enemy forces. Steinman was known by the nickname “Willow Hill,” according to the poem, which recounts his actions during the battle.
The poem describes Steinman continuing to fight after his M16 jammed. He took an AK-47 from a fallen enemy soldier and continued firing and maneuvering through the fighting.
The poem concludes with the writer stating that he witnessed the events and encouraging those visiting Illinois to visit Willow Hill as a way of showing respect and goodwill.
After returning home from Vietnam, Steinman went on to serve his community through his work with the Jasper County Unit No. 1 School System. He retired after 20 years of service as a custodian and bus driver at Willow Hill Elementary School.
Steinman was a member of the Potter’s House Ministry and a lifetime member of VFW Post #1769 in Effingham. He enjoyed dancing, mushroom hunting, grilling and spending time with family and friends.
The ceremony honoring Steinman opened with a welcome from Jason Meyer, followed by an invocation from Scott Larson. The Jasper Post #20 American Legion and Sainte Marie Post #932 American Legion presented the colors.
Beth Larson performed the National Anthem, followed by recognition of military service by Bob Troutman.
Opening remarks were presented by State Senator Chapin Rose and State Representative Adam Niemerg.
The program also included a presentation to Steinman’s family, a blessing by Scott Larson, a moment of silence and “Battle Hymn of the Republic” performed by Douglas Tinkhiner.
The ceremony provided an opportunity to recognize Steinman’s decades of service and to remember the sacrifices made by him and other veterans of the Vietnam War.
Photos Submitted by Lisa Meyer
