By Tom Keener
NDG Special Contributor
A 33-year U.S. Army and Navy veteran, Col. Ralph Hodge’s assignments included tours of duty in the Korean and Viet Nam conflicts and he served with a number of other esteemed military notables. He will discuss his role in those wars and his military career at the Allen Public Library, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 9. A recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, Col. Hodge will be escorted to the podium by Boy Scout Troop 328.
A descendant of Captain Thomas Nelson and his mulatto servant Jenny, Col. Hodge has had a life-long fascination with his family genealogy. Captain Nelson served with General George Washington in the Battle of Trenton during the American Revolution. Nelson and Jenny had six children, one being Harry Spurlock from whom Col. Hodge’s family descended. Because interracial marriage was prohibited at that time, the children could not carry their father’s name.
“My grandmother was mulatto who appeared white and married Roger Hodge, a black man,” Col. Hodge notes. “My family is comprised of red heads, blue-eyed whites and blacks.”
Sponsored by Bach to Books, Adult Services and VFW 2195, this program is free. For information, call 214-509-4911.
