In 2023, Retired Army Maj. Willie Merkerson Jr. earned the Distinguished Service Cross for his valor in Vietnam. His children have been among those who have campaigned for the distinction to be upgraded to the Medal of Honor.
Merkerson, who lives in Fayetteville, says he only did his mission and was not seeking medals. But he believes in justice.
He has thrown his support behind another Fayetteville man, Lamont McKoy, convicted of a murder 35 years ago that evidence strongly suggests he did not commit…