Ralph Eaton

Ralph "Doc" Parker Eaton was a United States Army Brigadier General, serving most notably during World War II in the European Theater.

On August 5, 1898, Eaton was born in Bloomington, IL, and later went on to attend the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1924.Eaton's most notable role was serving as the Chief of Staff of both the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps for General Matthew Ridgway. His decorations included the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster and the Army Distinguished Service Medal. His other roles included a War Department Manpower Board Chairman, and Staff Secretary for the Caribbean Command.US Army Fort Bragg, where the 82nd Airborne Division is located, has honored Eaton by naming a Hall after him, named Eaton Hall.Eaton retired from the Army in 1954 and died on May 1, 1986.Eaton is interred in Lewis Memorial Park in Asheville, North Carolina.

Eaton's Military Milestones:

• Chief of Staff, 82nd Airborne Division [Italy]
• Chief of Staff, XVIII Airborne Corps [North West Europe]
• Chairman of 7th Section, War Department Manpower Board
• Staff Secretary, Caribbean Command