Local Vietnam Veteran Honored As Reds' Hometown Hero

Mike Witte stood received a standing ovation from 22,000 fans during last night's Reds win.

Mike Witte was the Cincinnati Reds' Hometown Hero on Monday night. Photo by P.G. Gentrup. 

(Cincinnati, Oh.) – The Cincinnati Reds offense wasn't the only thing worth cheering for on Monday night.

Mike Witte was honored as the Reds’ Hometown Hero during last night’s game against the Los Angeles Angels.

Witte stood on the home dugout at the end of the second inning to the applause of over 22,000 fans.

A third-generation combat medic, Witte served with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade near Chu Lai, Vietnam from May 1968 to April 1970

During that time, Witte received the Silver Star, our nation's third-highest award for valor, for actions against the Viet Cong on March 20, 1969. He is also a Purple Heart recipient.

Nowadays, Witte serves in the Color Guard helping his fellow Southestern Indiana Vietnam Veterans of American Lary D. Folge Chapter 71 pay a final tribute to our departed veterans.

More from Local News


Events

Structure Fire on Schantz Street

Firefighters estimate using nearly 10,000 gallons of water.

Two Dogs Trapped Inside Home Fire

Firefighters kept the fire contained to a single bedroom.

Great Parks Announces 2026 Community Days

Visitors will not need a Motor Vehicle Permit on these days.

Local Sports Report - January 9-10, 2026

Rivertown Classic, Ripley Co. Tourney, EIAC Swim and IHSAA Girls Wrestling Regional.

SEI Trio Heading to IHSAA Girls Wrestling State Finals

The State Finals happen Friday in Indianapolis.

East Central Boys and Girls Claim EIAC Swimming & Diving Championships

The conference meet was held in St. Leon on Friday and Saturday.

On Air

Keith Whitley I'm Over You 0:54
George Strait Right or Wrong 0:52
Brantley Gilbert and LINDSEY ELL What Happens In A Small Town 0:48
Cole Swindell Forever To Me 0:44