Amash Presents Purple Heart Medals

Amash Presents Purple Heart Medals

Third District Veterans Receive Honors for Wartime Service

Grand Rapids, Michigan – Rep. Justin Amash presented the Purple Heart Medal to Ford Elmer Briggs of Rockford and James Dwaine Fryman of Wyoming this morning at a ceremony at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Briggs is an Army veteran of the Korean War, and Fryman served in the Army during the Vietnam War.

Briggs received a Purple Heart with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster for wounds received in action on October 25 and November 1, 1952, in Korea. Briggs also received the Army’s Good Conduct Medal and the Korean War Service Medal.

“Mr. Briggs’ courageous actions served the country he loves so deeply. It is an honor to present these awards to him,” said Amash. 

While serving in Vietnam on September 29, 1970, Fryman decimated hostile forces while sacrificing his own safety. As a superior officer reported, “Through his timely and courageous actions, he was instrumental in thwarting the enemy assault and minimized friendly casualties.”

Amash stated, “We are proud to honor the sacrifice Mr. Fryman made for our country. He deserves this honor for his bravery and the devotion he has for the United States.”

Debra Unseld of the Army Strong Community Center in Grand Rapids joined Amash at the ceremony.

Note: Photos from the event are attached to this release.

###

Rep. Amash with Ford Elmer Briggs.

Rep. Amash with James Dwaine Fryman.

Rep. Amash with Fryman (left) and Briggs (right).