Among the 86 veterans’ banners now flying proudly above Port Washington’s Main Street, one deserves our special attention. This banner honors a unique hero who once called Port Washington home. Today, his name is permanently remembered on the north side of the Carrie Palmer Weber Middle School extension, which bears the sign: “Major Douglas T. Jacobson Memorial Wing.”

So that we do not forget this extraordinary man, here is his story:

Douglas Thomas Jacobson (November 25, 1925 – August 20, 2000) was born in Rochester, NY, but moved with his family to Port Washington, where he attended both elementary and high school. During his time in Port, he served the community as a lifeguard and swimming instructor.

In 1943, at just 17 years old, Jacobson enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. In February 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima in the Pacific Theater of World War II, then-Private First Class Jacobson displayed extraordinary bravery by destroying sixteen enemy positions—actions that were instrumental to the United States’ victory on the island.

For his heroism and valor in combat, he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman in October 1945. Jacobson continued his service in the Marine Corps and was promoted to the rank of Major on July 1, 1964. He retired from the military in 1967.

When he passed away in 2000, Major Jacobson was laid to rest with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

As we honor our veterans, we invite you to take a walk down Main Street. Stop at the northwest corner of Main and North Maryland Avenue, and look up to see the banner honoring Major Douglas Thomas Jacobson, USMC—a true hometown hero.

Presented by the 2025 VFW Post 1819
Our Own Hometown Heroes Banner Committee