Huelskamp Applies Pressure, DOD Reverses Course on Combat Medals

WASHINGTON, DC  – On Thursday morning, Congressman Huelskamp (KS-01) became aware that the Obama Administration intended to deny the Global War on Terror Expeditionary or Service medals to soldiers sent to serve in the Iraq region as part of a deployment to combat ISIL. This includes the 500 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley Kansas, who are to be deployed to that region after the Casing Ceremony on October 8th.

In response to the Combat Medal denial, Huelskamp’s office immediately contacted the Pentagon. That was followed up with an emergency letter from Huelskamp to Secretary of Defense Hagel concerning this snub of our brave service members. After an initial response from the Department of Defense (DOD) that this matter would be reviewed next week, news broke later that evening that the Administration has reversed course.

Congressman Huelskamp issued the following response to this news:

“I was shocked that the Obama Administration intended to show such disrespect to our brave soldiers.  However, after our letter and likely pressure from numerous other sources, I am pleased that Obama has apparently and abruptly reversed course and is recognizing the military action in the Iraq and Syrian region for what it is – a combat mission. It should go without saying that our President and Military commanders have an obligation to our brave soldiers to define the mission they are risking life and limb for and reward them for their service. I look forward to honoring our valiant men and women of the Big Red One at Fort Riley.”

A copy of the letter sent to Secretary Hagel is below:

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