Congressman Charles Bass

October 18, 2012

NEWPORT, NH – At a ceremony at his Newport Office this morning, Congressman Charles F. Bass (NH-02) presented several service medals to Vietnam War veteran Gene Patnaude of Marlow. Joining Patnaude for the medal presentation this morning was his 12-year-old grandson, Kellin Cushing.

Patnaude served as a scout sniper in the U.S. Marine Corps and was stationed in Vietnam during the Vietnam War with K Company, 3rd Battalion, in the 7th Marine Regiment of the 1st Marines Division. During his service, Patnaude was severely wounded, having been blown 12 feet into the air. After spending eight months in military hospitals, Patnaude was able to return home to recover from his life-threatening wounds.

Bass said, "I am truly honored to present Gene Patnaude with these medals for his dedication and service to our great nation. They are a small token of our nation's deep appreciation for the sacrifices he made to protect our freedoms and way of life."

Bass was able to help Patnaude obtain his medals, several of which he presented to Patnaude this morning: the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnamese Service Medal with three bronze campaign stars. Patnaude is also receiving the Combat Action Ribbon (Vietnam), the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Color with palm), the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Civil Action Color with palm), the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Parachutist Insignia, and the Rifle Expert Badge.



From left to right in photo: Kellin Cushing, grandson of Gene Patnaude; Vietnam War and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Gene Patnaude of Marlow; and Congressman Charles F. Bass (NH-02).

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