The Dunn family’s legacy in serving the United States is a rich tale of patriotism, sacrifice, and unyielding commitment. It’s a narrative that begins with John Ernest Dunn Sr., known as Ernie, emerging from the backdrop of an America brimming with immigrant dreams and aspirations. Raised in an Irish Catholic household with a father who worked for the Union Pacific Railroad, Ernie inherited a profound sense of duty and service. When World War I erupted, Ernie eagerly answered the nation’s call, training diligently at Camp Funston in Kansas. Yet, destiny intervened when a scar from a childhood streetcar mishap barred him from joining the Army Signal Corps. Undeterred, Ernie redirected his fervor into a different form of service, spearheading the construction of a dedication wall at the Liberty Memorial, a poignant tribute to those who gave their lives in service during World War I.
As the shadows of World War II loomed over the globe, the federal government sought the aid of private contractors like JE Dunn to erect housing for defense workers. In the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, JE Dunn swiftly mobilized to provide homes for the brave souls supporting war efforts.
Ernie Sr. embodied selflessness by consistently bidding low on defense projects, eschewing profits to bolster the nation’s defense. His unwavering dedication earned recognition from President Franklin D. Roosevelt and cemented his status as a titan in the construction realm.
Meanwhile, Ernie’s sons, Ernie Jr. and Bill walked in their father’s footsteps, serving with valor in the military. Ernie Jr. took flight as a pilot in the Marine Air Corps, while Bill soared the skies as a naval aviator.
The Dunn family’s commitment to service transcended the battlefield; Ernie Sr. intervened to ensure his daughter’s wedding to a naval officer went smoothly when he couldn’t leave his station.
Post-war, Ernie Sr. advocated tirelessly for reconstruction efforts, emphasizing the imperative of revitalizing the nation’s infrastructure. His vision encompassed new factories, enhanced schools, hospitals, and improved roads and bridges — all vital components in facilitating the return of veterans to a prosperous homeland.
In anticipation of the housing needs of returning heroes, JE Dunn embarked on ambitious projects like Victory Court Apartments, providing a haven for war veterans and their families. The company’s dedication extended to initiatives like relocating barracks to offer temporary housing.
The legacy of JE Dunn employees — exemplified by veterans like Jack McCollom, Dick Neumann, and Rafford Davis — echoes the resolute spirit of the American people. Their stories resonate with the values of hard work, integrity, and resilience.
As the nation pauses to honor its heroes on Veterans Day, the enduring legacy of JE Dunn serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom. From the crucible of conflict to the halls of peace, the Dunn family’s dedication to America stands as a timeless tribute to the unwavering spirit that defines the land of the free and the home of the brave.