Jerry was deployed overseas for 18 years, including 1968 and 1969 in Vietnam and seven years in the Middle East. Among his 22 awards, decorations, and medals are the Bronze Star, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 bronze stars and was decorated by the Hmong Secret Guerrilla Unit.

In 2019, Sen. John Hoffman (DFL-Champlin), Sen. Jerry Newton (DFL-Coon Rapids), and Sen. Jim Abeler (R-Anoka) received the Knight in the Order of the White Parasol from the Hmong Special Guerilla Unit from the son of General Vang Pao. The Hmong Special Guerilla Unit is credited with saving hundreds of American soldiers and pilots in Laos during the Vietnam War, at great cost of life in their Hmong community.

​“Many soldiers owe these brave men and women their lives,” said Sen. Newton. “I am among those who owe them an eternal debt.”

Jerry has remained active in the Veteran community after his service, including being a Life member of the Sgt. John Rice VFW Post 6316, Disabled Veterans of America, Coon Rapids American Legion, . He also serves as the Minority Lead on the Veterans and Military Affairs Finance and Policy committee in the State Senate and has served on the State Government Finance: Veterans Affairs Division, State Government Finance and Veterans Affairs, and the Agriculture, Rural Economies and Veterans Affairs: Veterans Affairs Division committees while in the State House.

Jerry loyally served our country abroad for 18 years and for 24 years at home. He continues to work hard to ensure that veterans across Minnesota who need care have access to the Minnesota Veterans Home, has been a strong proponent of veterans courts and benefits for disabled veterans, and services for female veterans.