Douglas was born on June 4, 1942, to the late Exie B. Holden Palmer and Mack Palmer. He became a Christian while still young. Many was his hometown.
In 1961 he graduated from high school in Many in 1961 from Sabine High School setting his sights on military service for his future. He enlisted in the United States Army soon after graduation and served 24 years from 1963 to 1987. During his duty in the U.S, Army, he fought to protect and serve his country with honor during two tours of duty during the Vietnam War also serving during Korean War. His service included several tours of duty overseas including time in Korea and in Germany fighting as a first infantry soldier. Following his service in the U.S Army he retired in 1987 with the rank of Master Sergeant.
He returned To Many, Louisiana in after completing his military service. His desire to serve and protect transferred to work with the Many Police Department. He worked with the department for fifteen years, retiring in 2002.
During his time in the Army, he married Rose Mary Thomas of Many on April 6, 1964. They had a family of four children. Those children include Wayne Palmer (deceased), Claudette Palmer; Tracy Palmer; Chris Palmer (Tandra). He has fourteen grandchildren and sixteen great- grandchildren. Douglas and Rosemary Palmer were married for more than fifty years.
Master Sgt. Palmer deserves the honor of recognition demonstrated by this Posthumous Award given by the Sabine Hall of Fame for his service to the country and community. It is a pleasure to honor Master Sgt. Douglas Ray Palmer. Douglas served his country and the community with honor and was a valuable citizen to our community.
The Sabine Hall of Fame Induction Banquet will be held on Tuesday, March 26th at Cypress Bend Banquet Hall, 2000 Cypress Bend Parkway, Many, Louisiana. Doors open at 6:00 P.M. an program begins at 6:30 P. M. Tickets at $50 person can be purchased at: Pete Abington’s Office, Nichols in Many, Sabine Parish Tourist Commission, Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce, Robert Gentry’s Office at the radio station and by calling Martha Hendeson at 6459573.