SGM Walter Cherny

Walter Cherny, aged 84, peacefully passed away on the early morning of Thursday, February 29, 2024. Born on January 20, 1940, in Dolinska, Ukraine, which was then part of the former Soviet Union,

Walter's life was marked by resilience and fortitude from the outset. Alongside his mother, Valentina, he endured the harrowing experience of being captured by Nazi forces during World War II, subjected to a forced march from Ukraine to Germany, and subsequently imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp until their liberation by American forces in 1945. Refusing repatriation to the communist Soviet Union, they settled in Germany until the opportunity arose to immigrate to America under the Displaced Persons Program, arriving in Cleveland, Ohio, in December 1952.

Walter's commitment to service and duty led him to enlist in the US Army, where he dedicated over 28 years of his life, retiring with the rank of Sergeant Major at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. His military career saw him deployed to Vietnam, where he served with distinction for 40 combat months, earning the Bronze Star and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. It was during this time that he met and married his beloved wife, Incha, with whom he shared a bond of enduring love and companionship. A devout Christian, Walter found solace and strength in his faith, embodying unwavering principles and a staunch defense of his beliefs. He was a proud American and a passionate patriot, shaped by the adversities he had overcome and the values he held dear.

In his leisure, Walter engaged in lively discussions on religion and politics with close friends, often accompanied by indulgent buffet lunches. His spirited nature and unwavering determination were evident in every aspect of his life, reflecting a resilience that inspired all who knew him.

Walter is survived by his loving wife, Incha; his son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Kimberly (Young); his cherished granddaughters, Cydnii, Valen, and Amaria; his grandson, Anthony; and his great-granddaughter, Mila.

He is preceded in death by his father, Alexander; his mother, Valentina; and his daughter, Tina.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 8, at 10 a.m. in the chapel at the Sierra Vista Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, located at 1300 Buffalo Soldier Trail, with Chaplain Donald Carrothers officiating. Military honors will follow immediately after the chapel ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans  ( https://www.dvnf.org/donation/) an organization that provided invaluable support to Walter throughout his life, particularly during his struggles resulting from his service during the Vietnam War.

Arrangements entrusted to Hatfield Funeral Home.

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