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Press Release

For Immediate Release
October 23, 2006
Contact:  Sean C. Bonyun
(202) 225-3761

Upton to Present Long Overdue Bronze Star to Marcellus WWII Vet on Tuesday

MARCELLUS, MI - This Tuesday, October 24th, at the Marcellus VFW, Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) will present the Bronze Star to a local veteran who saw combat action in World War II.  Mr. David C. Thornton did not receive his much deserved medal following the completion of his service in the United States military.  Upton will make the presentation at 1:30pm.

Mr. Thornton served in the United States Army from February 10th, 1942 to December 7th, 1945.  In 1962, the United States Army awarded the Bronze Star to Mr. Thornton, but he never received his much deserved recognition.  The certificate awarded to Mr. Thornton by the Secretary of the Army in 1962 detailed Mr. Thornton's heroics -

For heroic achievement while assigned to Detachment I, 4025th Signal Service Group, in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations from 10 February 1945 to 23 February 1945, in military operations against an enemy of the United States during World War II  On 10 February 1945, Private Thornton and another soldier, who were on pass from regular duty, recognized the precarious situation and inadequacy of the arms of the guerilla units guarding the exit of the surrounded Japanese strong point, volunteered and led several guerillas to the successful assault and killing of about 35 Japanese soldiers out of 100 that were acting as an outpost while the rest fled.  Then on 23 February 1945, word was received that Japanese soldiers fleeing the Walled City in Manila, rode on boats and occupied the numerous fish traps in the Manila Bay.  Private Thornton and the other soldier, along with about 20 guerillas, went to patrol the reported Japanese occupied fish traps, where they encountered and killed 16 Japanese soldiers.  Private First Class Thornton's loyalty, diligence, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on himself, the 4025 Signal Service Group and the Army of the United States.   

"It is a great honor to pay tribute to Mr. Thornton for his heroic service to our nation," said Upton.  "Nearly 60 years ago, in the prime of his youth he put his life on hold and left loved ones behind to fight for the survival of democracy.  While the Bronze Star is long overdue, we are all grateful for Mr. Lummis' service to the nation.  He truly personifies the 'Greatest Generation.'" 

Tuesday, October 24th
1:30pm-2:00pm
VFW Post #4054
53550 M-40
Marcellus

All members of the media are strongly encouraged to attend.

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