Show your love for America and celebrate the U.S Navy and U.S Marines during Philly’s Homecoming 250 Celebrations!
Get yourself a LIMITED Edition Homecoming 250 Inspired RTM T-Shirt, available only at “The Market Merch” Store!
In honor of Homecoming 250, we would like to honor those who have served our country. Here are a few stories from merchants and veteran families:
Market Connection – Main Squeeze Acai Bowls & Salads
Richard J. Smith
United States Army | Army’s Central Intelligence Corp.
Served from 1950-1954 | Korean War
Richard J. Smith honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict (1950–1954) as a member of the Army’s Central Intelligence Corps. A photo taken at the time of his enlistment captures the beginning of a lifetime defined by dedication, integrity, and service.
Following his military service, Richard utilized the GI Bill to further his education at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his degree in Engineering. His professional career was marked by more than 50 years of service as Chief Engineer at the Philadelphia Gas Works, where he was respected for his leadership, expertise, and commitment to excellence.
Market Connection – PA General Store
David Holahan
United States Marines | Lieutenant Colonel
Served in 3 Wars
Lieutenant Colonel David Holahan is a retired United States Marine Corps officer whose distinguished military career spanned multiple decades and three major wars. Known for his strategic leadership and unwavering dedication, he played a critical role during operations in Afghanistan, where he was responsible for establishing and securing vital supply routes that ensured the movement of goods, equipment, and resources in and out of the region.
Throughout his service, Lt. Col. David Holahan exemplified the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment, earning the respect of those who served alongside him. His story and contributions have even been recognized in media coverage
Market Connection – Market Bakery
Raymond Ralston
United States Navy | Sonarman Second Class
Served 2.5 years | Jul 1943 thru Jan 1946
Raymond Ralston proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II, dedicating 2½ years to his country from July 1943 through January 1946. He held the rank of Sonarman Second Class, specializing in sonar operations and contributing to vital naval missions during his service.
His commitment and skill played an important role in supporting the Navy’s efforts during one of the most pivotal times in modern history. Raymond’s service stands as a lasting testament to his courage, discipline, and devotion to duty.
Market Connection – Sweet Nina’s
Matthew Perry
United States Navy
World War II
From Albany, Georgia | Profession, Entrepreneur, Perry and Son Construction, President and Owner.
Both he and his wife, Lucy B Perry, huge inspiration for Sweet Nina’s.
We his family honor our Dad and all the women and men for serving our country, for your commitment, protection and sacrifices ensuring our freedom at home and abroad. We now salute you in Celebration of your 250th Anniversary in the City of Philadelphia the birthplace of the Navy and Marines! Your honorable service will never be forgotten! God bless America
Market Connection – Kensington Food Company
Thomas Sheridan
United States Navy
Thomas Sheridan owner of Kensington Food Company and native of Kensington, PA, enlisted in the US Navy immediately after graduating from High School. After speaking with a Navy recruiter, Tom saw the Navy as an opportunity to provide stability in his life and propel him towards success. In addition to owning and operating a business, Tom is a certified olive oil sommelier and balsamic analyst. He has been part of the Reading Terminal Market Merchant Community since 2022.
Market Connection – RTMC Office
Donald Clawges
United States Marine Corps
Served from 1957 – 1960 | Stationed the USS Guam
Born August 16, 1941 in Philadelphia, PA, enlisted in the US Navy and was stationed aboard the USS Guam, an amphibious assault ship that was constructed in the Philadelphia Navy Yard from 1962 to 1965, specifically built to support Marine Corps operations. Mr. Clawges resides in Fishtown, PA.
Market Connection – Sweet Nina’s
Joe Willie Phelps
United States Navy
Served from 1942 – 1945
Joe Willie Phelps, the son of John Phelps and Trudie Phelps, was born in Cresswell, North Carolina in January 28, 1920 and passed on October 6, 1977. He enlisted in the Navy in 1942 in Norfolk, VA and was discharged in 1945. He was married to Ethel Dunbar- Phelps who proceeded him in death. They had five children Elwood Phelps of Cresswell, NC, Emma Lee Phelps of Philadelphia, Ernest Phelps of Montclair, NJ, Patricia Huntley of East Orange, NJ and Alverta Perry of Waxhaw, NC.. He raised his family on the family farm in Cresswell, NC.