Stephen Thompson’s False Claim

Stephen Thompson is attempting to rewrite history by falsely asserting that he was the sole initiator and coordinator of Cottleville’s designation as a Purple Heart City. But the facts tell a different story, and we have the proof.

The Truth Behind Cottleville’s Purple Heart Designation

Official city records, public statements, and documented proclamations show that the effort to designate Cottleville as a Purple Heart City was spearheaded by:

 City Administrator Rich Francis, who formally applied on behalf of the city.

 Mayor Bob Ronkoski, who supported the initiative in honor of his father, James F. Ronkoski, a decorated Vietnam War veteran who was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart.

 Sidney “Sid” Staton, Commander of the Missouri Purple Heart Chapter 125, who advised and guided the city on the process.

In contrast, nowhere in the official city records or proclamations is Stephen Thompson mentioned as playing any meaningful role in this effort.

Proof That Stephen Thompson is Lying

• Official Proclamation Signed by Mayor Ronkoski (May 18, 2022): The official City of Cottleville proclamation naming it a Purple Heart City is signed by Mayor Robert Ronkoski and City Clerk Amy Lewis—not Thompson.

• City’s Public Announcement (May 30, 2022): The City of Cottleville publicly acknowledged Rich Francis, Mayor Ronkoski, and Sidney Staton—not Thompson—as the key figures in securing this honor.

• Sgt. James Ronkoski’s Heroic Story: The mayor’s father’s military service and Purple Heart award played a major role in the city’s decision to apply for the designation—again, not Thompson’s work.

• The General Orders from October 5, 1966, detailing the heroism of Sgt. James Ronkoski, further solidify that this effort was deeply personal to the city leadership.

Why This Matters

If Stephen Thompson is willing to falsely claim credit for something he had little to no involvement in, how can the people of Cottleville trust him as mayor?

 Lying about community efforts is a red flag for dishonesty.

 Exploiting veterans’ honors for political gain is disgusting and disrespectful.

 The real heroes behind this initiative—Rich Francis, Mayor Ronkoski, and veterans like Sidney Staton and Sgt. Ronkoski—deserve the credit.

Cottleville Deserves Honest Leadership—Not a Fraud

The citizens of Cottleville should not stand for stolen credit and false claims. Stephen Thompson is trying to deceive the community into believing he led an initiative that was actually accomplished by others. This is a slap in the face to the veterans and city officials who truly made it happen.

When you vote, ask yourself:

 Do you want a leader who fabricates achievements?

 Do you trust someone who takes credit for others’ work?

 Or do you want leadership built on integrity, honesty, and genuine service?

The choice is clear. Reject deception. Reject deception. Reject Thompson