SGT. MAJ. JIMMY THORNE HONORED AS DISTINGUISHED VETERAN BY KENTUCKY GENERAL ASSEMBLY
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 27, 2025) — Retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jimmy Thorne was formally recognized on Wednesday before the Interim Joint Committee (IJC) on Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection for his decades of decorated military service and his continued impact as a civic leader in the commonwealth.
Thorne, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime Williamstown resident, received a formal citation from the Kentucky General Assembly after being introduced by Sen. Matt Nunn, R-Sadieville, and Rep. Savannah Maddox, R-Dry Ridge.
“I could think of no person more deserving of this recognition than Sergeant Major Thorne,” said Nunn. “I’ve gotten to know him over the last year and a half, and I found him to be a very kind man. When I learned about his history and how impressive it is, I knew this honor was more than earned.”
Thorne enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1965 and completed two tours in Vietnam before serving in Lebanon and Somalia. Thorne earned numerous military honors throughout his career, including the Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, among others.
“I made two decisions in my life that I am proud I did,” Thorne said. “One, enlisting in the Marine Corps. Two: moving to the state of Kentucky.”
Maddox reflected on Thorne’s long-standing role in the community and her personal memory of his kindness.
“I’ve known him since I was just a teenager in high school, working my very first job at a local grocery store,” Maddox recalled. “Even back then, his kindness stood out in a way you don’t forget. Jimmy Thorne is the kind of person whose goodness runs deep. He is genuine, intentional, and unwavering in his dedication to both our community and our nation. That early memory has stayed with me all these years because it truly speaks to the essence of who he is. Jimmy carries a quiet humility, always choosing to lift others up rather than seek recognition for himself. His life is a reflection of service, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to putting others first. His heart for this community is, and always has been, something truly special.”
Thorne is the president of Volunteers In Community Events (VICE) and continues to support public safety programs in Grant County.
Click here to find a clip of Nunn, Maddox, and the committee honoring Thorne via the KY Senate Republicans YouTube Channel.
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Sen. Matt Nunn represents the 17th Senate District, including Grant and Scott Counties, southern Kenton County, and northwestern Fayette County. He held a distinguished military career in the Kentucky Army National Guard as a Commissioned Officer and serves as a member of the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee.
Rep. Savannah Maddox represents the 61st House District, including Grant and Gallatin Counties and parts of Boone and Kenton Counties. She is a member of the House Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee.
As members of their respective chambers' Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committees, Nunn and Maddox serve on the interim joint committee that conducts business during the interim period.