PRESENTS MEDALS OF SAM SANDLER TO DAUGHTER ELLEN WOLFE TODAY IN HIS OCALA OFFICE

Washington, Nov 6, 2008 - Today, Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala) is presenting the medals earned by Sam Sandler in World War II to Sandler’s daughter, Ellen Wolfe. Sandler was killed while serving in the U.S. Army during the war, and Wolfe asked for Stearns’ help in obtaining his Purple Heart. While working to secure that decoration, Stearns learned that Sandler also was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and earned the European-African Middle East Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Army Occupation Medal, WWII.

Stearns presented these military awards to Ellen Wolfe at his Ocala office today at 1:30 PM. “As a veteran, I appreciate the hardships and dangers of military service, including the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms,” said Stearns. “Sam Sandler lost his life fighting for our nation, and his loss must not be forgotten. The bravery and determination of soldiers such as Sam Sandler achieved victory in World War II and ended the threat of global fascism. I am proud that we were able to obtain the military award that Sam Sandler earned in combat, and I am honored to present them to his daughter.”