Patchogue, NY— Congressman Tim Bishop today joined in a ceremony to present Patchogue World War II veteran Salvatore Sepulveda with the insignia of the French Legion of Honor, which is that nation’s highest military honor. Sepulveda served in the US Army in the 1st Infantry Division and participated in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. As his infantry battalion moved inland, Sepulveda, as a scout, worked in advance of his battalion in order to secure information concerning strength, disposition, and probable intentions of enemy forces.

“I am humbled to help honor Salvatore Sepulveda for his service not only to this nation, but to help free others,” Congressman Bishop said. “I am pleased that my office could help play a role in securing these honors for Salvatore, just like we have helped secure medals and benefits which were earned by thousands of veterans throughout the 1st Congressional District, but which required the intervention of a Congressman to secure.”

The French government only decided in March, 2006 to allow American World War II veterans to be included in the Legion of Honor. Prior to that date, only World War I veterans had been eligible. When Bishop’s office learned about these new rules, they worked with the French Consulate to make them aware of deserving veterans from the 1st Congressional District. Sepulveda had recently been approved by the French government for the honor and had been invited, along with other veterans, to receive this honor at a ceremony in New York City on Veterans Day. However, Sepulveda is sick and unable to travel.

Sepulveda requested he be presented into the Legion of Honor by Congressman Bishop. However, under French law, this honor can only be bestowed by a French citizen. Jean-Paul Picot, a Chavalier of the Legion of Honor, came to Sepulveda’s home in Patchogue to personally bestow the honors.

As a result of this heroic service, Sepulveda was awarded the Bronze Star Medal on 26 April 1946. Other awards and decorations earned by Sepulveda are: The Purple Heart Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 4 bronze service stars, the World War II Victory Medal, the Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar, Honorable Service Lapel Button, the Jubilee of Liberty Medal, and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross.

PHOTO CAPTION—Congressman Tim Bishop (center) and Jean-Paul Picot, a Chevalier in the French Legion of Honor award Patchogue World War II veteran Salvatore Sepulveda with the insignia of the French Legion of Honor.