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| Wilson Honors Veterans at Medals Presentation |
October 13, 2004 |
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| Ceremony Includes Veterans of World War II and Korean War
Albuquerque – Congresswoman Heather Wilson today honored several Albuquerque area veterans of World War II and the Korean War for their service.
Wilson was privileged to join veterans in a ceremony at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
"I’m honored to recognize your service to our country,” Wilson said. “Millions today live in freedom because of the dedication of those who answered our nation’s call when liberty was threatened.”
Receiving the Commemorative Medal of the Jubilee of Liberty from the Normandy campaign in World War II were Russell Hall, Joe Liebert, Seymour Slamowitz and Norman Strand.
Receiving the Korean War Service Medal were Albert Burmeister, Ernest Martinez, Luther Daves, James McCreight, Leo Pollak, Albert Brewer, Roger Feliciano, Roberto Mora, John Christensen, Welford Lucero and James Meyers.
Receiving the Purple Heart (reissued) for his Korean War service was Billy D. Smith.
Veterans looking for information on medals and veterans issues can learn more at http://wilson.house.gov.
About the Medals
The Medal of the Jubilee of Liberty was originally minted at the direction of the Region Council to be presented to those Normandy veterans who returned to France for the 50th Anniversary of the landing. The medal represents Normandy. One the front, “Overlord 6 Juin 1944” is inscribed on the upper part of the medal, with the flag of the Allied Countries and the names of the landing beaches complete the face of the Medal. On the reverse side is the Torch of Freedom surrounded by the device of William the Conquerer “Diex Aie” (God is with us). Qualified veterans served in the United States Armed Forces and in the Battle of Normandy at any time from June 6, 1944 through August 31, 1944.
The Korean War Service Medal was initially offered in 1951 by the Republic of Korea to forces serving in Korea and adjacent waters. At the time, U.S. law prohibited military officers from wearing medals issued by foreign governments, and they were never issued. That law was changed in 1954, after the return of most of the service members. About a half-century later, these veterans are receiving these distinctive medals.
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