Double Amputee Veteran Tammy Duckworth Blasts Trump for Joking About How Easy it Was to Get Purple Heart
People
Char Adams
August 3, 2016
Donald Trump is facing rebukes from military veterans again – this time for making a joke about how easy it is to get a Purple Heart after a veteran handed him one as a gift at a rally on Tuesday.
Illinois Rep. Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran who lost both of her legs when her helicopter was shot down in 2004, led the way, posting a photo of herself in a hospital bed wearing the medal on her gown.
"This is how one usually looks when you are awarded a Purple Heart. Nothing easy about it," Tammy DuckworthShe was joined by other veterans who posted pictures with their Purple Hearts, medals awarded only to servicemen and women who are wounded or killed in uniform.
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Showing posts with label Purple Heart. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Purple Heart. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
Veterans Try To School Trump On Purple Heart
Big difference between courage and ego, between sacrifice and swallowing pride. Trump's lack of respect for the wounded must leave him wondering why everyone is so upset.
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Vietnam Veteran Finally Receives Purple Heart To Shock of Buddy
Long thought dead, Warren Vietnam vet gets Purple Heart
Detroit News Washington Bureau
Keith Laing
July 10, 2016
Johnson’s friend, Fred Rivera of California, wrote a book about the impact of believing his best friend had died in his arms during combat that led to the discovery that Johnson was alive and well in Michigan.
The two friends were reunited for the first time in nearly five decades as Johnson, of Warren, was given a surprise Purple Heart decoration in a ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington on Sunday that that was arranged with the assistance of U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, D-Royal Oak.
Johnson said he never expected to be reunited with an old friend or receive the Purple Heart, which is the military’s oldest award that is given to members who are wounded or killed.
“I didn’t know what was going on,” he said. “I never expected to see Fred again.”
Johnson was nearly moved to tears by the presentation of Purple Heart. He recalled being denied the decoration when he returned from Vietnam in the late 1960s.
“I never thought it would happen, because this lady denied me a couple of times,” he said, referencing an Army official who processed his paperwork after his initial return to the U.S.
“When I got hit, I went down...I said ‘Oh God, am I in heaven?,’ Johnson recalled of the firefight that left Rivera believing he was dead.
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Detroit News Washington Bureau
Keith Laing
July 10, 2016
Rivera said he was so convinced that Johnson had died in his arms that he kept a band from one of Johnson’s boots that he wore around his wrist to remind him of the friend he believed died in combat.
Herman Johnson, center, with his onetime Vietnam buddy Fred Rivera, left, on Sunday accepted his Purple Heart that had been long denied him during a ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington.Washington — Herman Johnson is a Vietnam War veteran who was injured in a 1969 battle that left his best friend believing he was dead for 47 years.
(Photo: Keith Laing / The Detroit News)
Johnson’s friend, Fred Rivera of California, wrote a book about the impact of believing his best friend had died in his arms during combat that led to the discovery that Johnson was alive and well in Michigan.
The two friends were reunited for the first time in nearly five decades as Johnson, of Warren, was given a surprise Purple Heart decoration in a ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington on Sunday that that was arranged with the assistance of U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, D-Royal Oak.
Johnson said he never expected to be reunited with an old friend or receive the Purple Heart, which is the military’s oldest award that is given to members who are wounded or killed.
“I didn’t know what was going on,” he said. “I never expected to see Fred again.”
Johnson was nearly moved to tears by the presentation of Purple Heart. He recalled being denied the decoration when he returned from Vietnam in the late 1960s.
“I never thought it would happen, because this lady denied me a couple of times,” he said, referencing an Army official who processed his paperwork after his initial return to the U.S.
“When I got hit, I went down...I said ‘Oh God, am I in heaven?,’ Johnson recalled of the firefight that left Rivera believing he was dead.
read more here
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
MOH Sammy Davis Returns From Vietnam
Veteran whose actions were adapted for ‘Forrest Gump’ returns to Vietnam
WTTV CBS News
By Russ McQuaid
JULY 4, 2016
OWEN COUNTY, Ind.-- Truth be told, Sammy L. Davis doesn’t remember the last time he left Fire Support Base Cudgel west of Cai Lay in what was then called South Vietnam 48 years ago. Davis was choppered off the battlefield, severely wounded, after a night of war that saved the lives of three fellow Americans, held off an enemy onslaught and resulted in Davis being awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
This Independence Day, the night of November 18, 1967, is once again fresh in Davis’ memory as the Mooresville native has just returned from his first visit back to the riverbank where Hoosier-bred heroics were displayed and lives were changed nearly a half century ago.
“I stood on the exact same piece of dirt that I earned this medal on,” said Davis as he held the honor that hung from a sky blue ribbon around his neck during a recent memorial service. “I been wanting to go back for forty years.
WTTV CBS News
By Russ McQuaid
JULY 4, 2016
"I stood on the exact same piece of dirt that I earned this medal on. I been waiting to go back for forty years." Sammy L. Davis
OWEN COUNTY, Ind.-- Truth be told, Sammy L. Davis doesn’t remember the last time he left Fire Support Base Cudgel west of Cai Lay in what was then called South Vietnam 48 years ago. Davis was choppered off the battlefield, severely wounded, after a night of war that saved the lives of three fellow Americans, held off an enemy onslaught and resulted in Davis being awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
This Independence Day, the night of November 18, 1967, is once again fresh in Davis’ memory as the Mooresville native has just returned from his first visit back to the riverbank where Hoosier-bred heroics were displayed and lives were changed nearly a half century ago.
“I stood on the exact same piece of dirt that I earned this medal on,” said Davis as he held the honor that hung from a sky blue ribbon around his neck during a recent memorial service. “I been wanting to go back for forty years.
Davis was promoted to sergeant for what he did at Fire Support Base Cudgel. He also received the Medal of Honor, a Silver Star and two Purple Hearts.
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Saturday, June 25, 2016
OEF OIF Veteran Survived Combat, Killed in Hometown
Purple Heart veteran survives two tours in Middle East, murdered in hometown
WTVM News 9
Lauren Bale Reporter
Friday, June 24th 2016
A man served two tours in the Middle East only to be shot and killed back in his hometown.
Friday family members remembered Josh McLemore, a decorated war veteran killed after a dispute in Decatur.
Police arrested Scott Dutton and charged him with murder. Investigators said Dutton punched McLemore in the face and fired one round at the victim's feet before firing a fatal shot into his abdomen.
Josh was a decorated war veteran. He served a tour in Afghanistan and Iraq.
"They hit an IED in Iraq,” his mother Janice McLemore said. “And he had some shrapnel go through his head."
Despite his injuries, Josh pulled his fellow soldiers to safety.
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WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather and Sports
WTVM News 9
Lauren Bale Reporter
Friday, June 24th 2016
A man served two tours in the Middle East only to be shot and killed back in his hometown. (Source: Family)DECATUR, AL (WAFF)
A man served two tours in the Middle East only to be shot and killed back in his hometown.
Friday family members remembered Josh McLemore, a decorated war veteran killed after a dispute in Decatur.
Police arrested Scott Dutton and charged him with murder. Investigators said Dutton punched McLemore in the face and fired one round at the victim's feet before firing a fatal shot into his abdomen.
Josh was a decorated war veteran. He served a tour in Afghanistan and Iraq.
"They hit an IED in Iraq,” his mother Janice McLemore said. “And he had some shrapnel go through his head."
Despite his injuries, Josh pulled his fellow soldiers to safety.
read more here
WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather and Sports
Sunday, June 5, 2016
Conscientious Objector To Heroic Action in Vietnam
Vietnam War veteran awarded overdue medals
The Missoulian
MIKE FERGUSON
Jun 2, 2016
BILLINGS – Nearly 50 years after performing the heroic deeds that garnered him medals including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, Vietnam War medic Gary Booth of Billings finally received what he’d earned Wednesday – with the help of U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont.
Tester told a crowd he has awarded overdue medals to more than 900 Montana veterans during his two terms in the senate. Booth’s story – which Tester plans to read into the Congressional Record next week – “is the longest citation I’ve ever done,” he said, “which speaks to what you’ve done in theater.”
Booth, 71, registered as a conscientious objector before being called into army service in 1965. According to the citation, Booth’s unit was ambushed by a battalion four times its size on Feb. 21, 1967.
It was Booth’s job to brave enemy fire and run to wounded American soldiers to stop the bleeding and stabilize them until they could be moved.
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The Missoulian
MIKE FERGUSON
Jun 2, 2016
BILLINGS – Nearly 50 years after performing the heroic deeds that garnered him medals including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, Vietnam War medic Gary Booth of Billings finally received what he’d earned Wednesday – with the help of U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont.
Tester told a crowd he has awarded overdue medals to more than 900 Montana veterans during his two terms in the senate. Booth’s story – which Tester plans to read into the Congressional Record next week – “is the longest citation I’ve ever done,” he said, “which speaks to what you’ve done in theater.”
Booth, 71, registered as a conscientious objector before being called into army service in 1965. According to the citation, Booth’s unit was ambushed by a battalion four times its size on Feb. 21, 1967.
It was Booth’s job to brave enemy fire and run to wounded American soldiers to stop the bleeding and stabilize them until they could be moved.
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Friday, May 27, 2016
Fallen Remembered On Stairway to Freedom
Stairway to Freedom: Remembering a Fallen Veteran
WABI News
Taylor Kinzler
MAY 26, 2016
As Memorial Day approaches, we pause to remember the men and women who work tirelessly to protect our country.
Every military family has a story.
In strong, a unique memorial is hidden beneath the woods to honor a fallen veteran.
A man who posthumously received the Purple Heart for his second and final tour overseas.
It’s called the Stairway to Freedom.
Dixie Flagg is the mom of a fallen veteran.
“Richard. No doubt. Think of him every day. He’s my rock.”
Sergeant Richard Parker was 26 years old when he was killed in Iraq by an IED. Just days after finding out he was going to be a father.
“Why do I want them to remember? I won’t let them forget.”‘
Flags and flowers surround his grave, next to a letter written by Keegan. The son he’ll never meet.
“His son is doing some of the things that Richard was known to do. I caught one the other day, just the way he said something and it was all Richard and Richard had never even met him.”
Just a few miles down the road is a symbol of hope, in the form of steps.
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WABI News
Taylor Kinzler
MAY 26, 2016
“We all have to deal with things of life in general. We have to take one step at a time.” Dixie Flag
Every military family has a story.
In strong, a unique memorial is hidden beneath the woods to honor a fallen veteran.
A man who posthumously received the Purple Heart for his second and final tour overseas.
It’s called the Stairway to Freedom.
“Greater love has no man than this, than to lay down his life for his friends”
Dixie Flagg is the mom of a fallen veteran.
“Richard. No doubt. Think of him every day. He’s my rock.”
Sergeant Richard Parker was 26 years old when he was killed in Iraq by an IED. Just days after finding out he was going to be a father.
“Why do I want them to remember? I won’t let them forget.”‘
Flags and flowers surround his grave, next to a letter written by Keegan. The son he’ll never meet.
“His son is doing some of the things that Richard was known to do. I caught one the other day, just the way he said something and it was all Richard and Richard had never even met him.”
Just a few miles down the road is a symbol of hope, in the form of steps.
read more here
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Veteran "Webbie" Needs Lung Transplant, VA Said "No" Medicaid Said "Yes"
Family of veteran struggles to get him transplant
Veteran awarded with purple heart in desperate need of lung transplant
Rochester First
By Solina Lewi
s Published 04/27 2016
"Just so happens he got the raw end of the deal, he got cancer-free but there were repercussions from that," said his sister, Rachel Hafner.
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Veteran awarded with purple heart in desperate need of lung transplant
Rochester First
By Solina Lewi
s Published 04/27 2016
"I would have expected a lot more for a soldier who was injured numerous times, I mean he was blown-up, awarded a purple heart and still would have went back," said Rachel.Jonathan Webster, also known as "Webbie" by his military buddies, has been in a a medically-induced coma after a rare reaction to chemotherapy caused both of his lungs to collapse.
"Just so happens he got the raw end of the deal, he got cancer-free but there were repercussions from that," said his sister, Rachel Hafner.
read more here
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Vietnam War Hero Clark Welch Passed Away in Leesburg
Vietnam War hero dies in Leesburg
Orlando Sentinel
Lauren Ritchie
April 22, 2016
Maybe Clark Welch would still be alive today if the U.S. Army had been a little more gentle with that body of his.
The retired lieutenant colonel — probably Lake County's most highly decorated veteran — had shrapnel permanently jammed against his chest wall, which didn't help when it came to fighting a debilitating lung disease. He had no triceps muscle in one arm — it was blown off in combat. And over his 31-year career in the Army, he had broken more bones than his family could count, which took a lingering toll on his 76-year-old body.
Welch, an Airborne Ranger who loved his soldiers like a father, died April 12 in Leesburg.
The lieutenant colonel owned a piece of history in the Vietnam War that unfortunately was shrouded in lies by the U.S. government until a 2004 book by a Pulitzer Prize winner exposed the truth. For 25 years, the United States had portrayed the 1967 battle at Ong Thanh as a marvelous victory, when in truth it was a heartbreaking rout that left 60 men unnecessarily dead.
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Orlando Sentinel
Lauren Ritchie
April 22, 2016
Welch served as an Airborne Ranger in the 1st Infantry Division and Special Forces. He spent 31 years in the service and was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame. In addition to the Distinguished Service Cross, Welch was awarded three Silver Stars with "V" device signaling valor in combat, two Purple Hearts and the Legion of Merit, among others.
Ret. Army Lt. Col. Clark Welch, a Vietnam War hero, died recently in Leesburg and will be buried later in Arlington National Cemetery.
(Courtesy of the Clark Welch family)
Maybe Clark Welch would still be alive today if the U.S. Army had been a little more gentle with that body of his.
The retired lieutenant colonel — probably Lake County's most highly decorated veteran — had shrapnel permanently jammed against his chest wall, which didn't help when it came to fighting a debilitating lung disease. He had no triceps muscle in one arm — it was blown off in combat. And over his 31-year career in the Army, he had broken more bones than his family could count, which took a lingering toll on his 76-year-old body.
Welch, an Airborne Ranger who loved his soldiers like a father, died April 12 in Leesburg.
The lieutenant colonel owned a piece of history in the Vietnam War that unfortunately was shrouded in lies by the U.S. government until a 2004 book by a Pulitzer Prize winner exposed the truth. For 25 years, the United States had portrayed the 1967 battle at Ong Thanh as a marvelous victory, when in truth it was a heartbreaking rout that left 60 men unnecessarily dead.
read more here
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
"Decorated" Vietnam Veteran Faces Charges Under Stolen Valor
Feds charge Davenport man over medals, Stolen Valor
Quad City Times
Barb Ickes
Updated 8 hrs ago
A decorated Davenport Vietnam veteran is not as decorated as he has claimed, according to federal officials, and he now is facing a charge related to Stolen Valor.
One year ago, Bob Brooks told the Quad-City Times that his war record has been questioned for decades, even by his fellow veterans in Vietnam Veterans Quad-Cities Chapter 299. Although he long has been an active member of the chapter, Brooks was asked last year to resign from the group's Honor Guard and to step down from his role as a delegate to the national convention of Vietnam Veterans.
Brooks did not return phone calls seeking comment.
In a recent letter to members of Chapter 299, president Bill Albracht wrote, "This all came about after the conclusion of an ongoing investigation in reference to Brooks claiming numerous valor awards and military decorations that he never earned nor received. Although he did serve with distinction in Vietnam, he was never awarded the claimed 3 Silver Stars, 5 Purple Hearts."
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Quad City Times
Barb Ickes
Updated 8 hrs ago
Following additional inquiries to the Army and Navy by a Times reporter, a military investigation of Brooks' service record commenced. Results indicated Brooks earned no Silver Stars, nor was he awarded any Purple Hearts.
A decorated Davenport Vietnam veteran is not as decorated as he has claimed, according to federal officials, and he now is facing a charge related to Stolen Valor.
Brooks did not return phone calls seeking comment.
In a recent letter to members of Chapter 299, president Bill Albracht wrote, "This all came about after the conclusion of an ongoing investigation in reference to Brooks claiming numerous valor awards and military decorations that he never earned nor received. Although he did serve with distinction in Vietnam, he was never awarded the claimed 3 Silver Stars, 5 Purple Hearts."
read more here
Friday, March 18, 2016
Purple Heart Fake Ran Non-Profit Posing As Vietnam-Gulf War Marine
San Rafael gym owner accused of impersonating decorated veteran
SF Gate
By Jenna Lyons
March 17, 2016
A San Rafael gym owner spent years telling people he was a war hero, convincing donors he was awarded the Purple Heart as he persuaded them to give more than $20,000 to a veteran nonprofit and his own military recruit training program, authorities said.
But officials say he lied about receiving the nation’s oldest honor and bought Purple Heart ribbons to con donors into believing his story.
Gregory Bruce Allen, 68, was charged in the U.S. District Court of San Francisco Wednesday with fraudulent representations about receipt of military decoration or medals, a misdemeanor. He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, officials said.
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SF Gate
By Jenna Lyons
March 17, 2016
Allen hosted annual fundraisers starting in 2010, dressing the part of a decorated war veteran as he raised money for the “Helping Heroes from Home” nonprofit, also known as Triple H, and his recruit training program. Allen said he was a lieutenant with the United States Marine Corps who served in the Vietnam War and the Gulf War, officials said.
But officials say he lied about receiving the nation’s oldest honor and bought Purple Heart ribbons to con donors into believing his story.
Gregory Bruce Allen, 68, was charged in the U.S. District Court of San Francisco Wednesday with fraudulent representations about receipt of military decoration or medals, a misdemeanor. He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, officials said.
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Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Fort Hood Memorial "Sobering Reminder" Of What Was Lost in 2009
Remembering ‘what we lost’ ... Nov. 5, 2009, Fort Hood Memorial dedicated in Killeen
Killeen Daily Herald
Jacob Brooks
Herald staff writer
March 16, 2016
They placed their hands over their hearts and began to speak in unison: “I pledge allegiance to the flag...” The audience quickly joined in, creating a resounding, unifying “Pledge of Allegiance” inside the Killeen Civic and Conference Center on Friday.
It was one many emotional, yet also patriotic, moments that marked the long-awaited dedication ceremony of the November 5, 2009, Memorial, which honors the 12 soldiers and 1 civilian who were killed and dozens wounded in the mass shooting that day.
“The memorial itself will always be a sobering reminder of what we lost,” said Maj. Gen. John Uberti, deputy commander for III Corps and Fort Hood.
He was one of several speakers at the nearly three-hour event, which ended with the families of the fallen, the wounded and others visiting the memorial adjacent to the conference center.
The $400,000 memorial — which was paid for through donations and in-kind services — includes a gazebo, 13 statues symbolizing those killed and a flag pole in the center.
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Killeen Daily Herald
Jacob Brooks
Herald staff writer
March 16, 2016
Gabe Wolf | Herald Ft Hood Memorial-4 Ashlee Nemelka and Kevin Harmer visit PFC. Aaron Nemelka's bronze Friday at the Fort Hood Memorial dedication.KILLEEN — Three small boys, all children or grandchildren of those killed on Nov. 5, 2009, approached the stage as about 800 people quietly watched.
They placed their hands over their hearts and began to speak in unison: “I pledge allegiance to the flag...” The audience quickly joined in, creating a resounding, unifying “Pledge of Allegiance” inside the Killeen Civic and Conference Center on Friday.
It was one many emotional, yet also patriotic, moments that marked the long-awaited dedication ceremony of the November 5, 2009, Memorial, which honors the 12 soldiers and 1 civilian who were killed and dozens wounded in the mass shooting that day.
“The memorial itself will always be a sobering reminder of what we lost,” said Maj. Gen. John Uberti, deputy commander for III Corps and Fort Hood.
He was one of several speakers at the nearly three-hour event, which ended with the families of the fallen, the wounded and others visiting the memorial adjacent to the conference center.
The $400,000 memorial — which was paid for through donations and in-kind services — includes a gazebo, 13 statues symbolizing those killed and a flag pole in the center.
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Living in pain: For some wounded on Nov. 5, 2009, fight for benefits continues
Shawn Manning and Alonzo Lunsford Jr. — both former staff sergeants who were shot multiple times by Nidal Hasan — said despite earning the federal Purple Heart medals last April, their struggles with the government’s lack of labeling their wounds as “combat related” remain.
They said the pain they live with is an everyday reminder of what happened.
“I just had surgery last summer to remove a bullet out of my thigh and a bullet out of my back,” said Manning, who in addition to physical pain, also deals with post-traumatic stress disorder stemming from the shooting. “I still have a bullet in my back,” Lunsford said. “It cant be removed because it’s so close to my spine.” He, too, has complications from lingering pain and PTSD, as well as a traumatic brain injury from a bullet that hit close to one of his eyes.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Kentucky Wounded Marine's Purple Heart Harley Stolen
Veteran robbed of custom Purple Heart motorcycle in Florence
Man heard engine start, saw person take off on bike
WLWT News
By Emily Wood
Mar 12, 2016
FLORENCE, Ky. —A local Purple Heart recipient is at a loss without his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle.
Marine Combat Veteran Brandon Bailey's custom-painted Purple Heart Harley was stolen from his mother's driveway in Florence Sunday evening.
Bailey said he was at his mother's house with his wife for dinner and parked his bike parallel to the garage.
"I've been riding motorcycles since I was just a little guy," Bailey said.
Bailey enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1998 and was in Afghanistan in 2009 when his unit was hit by an IED. The Humvee he was in landed on top of him, crushing his pelvis, breaking both hips and his back.
His doctors told him he would never walk again, but Bailey was determined to not only defy their orders but get back on his bike.
Dealing with the pain from his injuries, more than 20 surgeries and PTSD, riding his bike became an escape from it all.
"That's my release. You have guys that go to war and they do things a human shouldn't do and they see things humans shouldn't see, so you need that release or you are going to explode or implode," Bailey said. "I fought cowards all over the world and then I come here and someone comes and takes a possession of mine."
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Man heard engine start, saw person take off on bike
WLWT News
By Emily Wood
Mar 12, 2016
This is the ride he survived in Afghanistan
Marine Combat Veteran Brandon Bailey's custom-painted Purple Heart Harley was stolen from his mother's driveway in Florence Sunday evening.
Bailey said he was at his mother's house with his wife for dinner and parked his bike parallel to the garage.
"I've been riding motorcycles since I was just a little guy," Bailey said.
Bailey enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1998 and was in Afghanistan in 2009 when his unit was hit by an IED. The Humvee he was in landed on top of him, crushing his pelvis, breaking both hips and his back.
His doctors told him he would never walk again, but Bailey was determined to not only defy their orders but get back on his bike.
Dealing with the pain from his injuries, more than 20 surgeries and PTSD, riding his bike became an escape from it all.
"That's my release. You have guys that go to war and they do things a human shouldn't do and they see things humans shouldn't see, so you need that release or you are going to explode or implode," Bailey said. "I fought cowards all over the world and then I come here and someone comes and takes a possession of mine."
read more here
Friday, February 19, 2016
WWII Iwo Jima Marine First Lt. John Wells Passed Away
Marine who led WWII charge up Mount Suribachi on Iwo Jima dies
Marine Corps Times
By Matthew L. Schehl
February 17, 2016
First Lt. John Wells, 94, died Feb. 11 at the Arvada Care Rehabilitation Center in Arvada, Colorado.
Wells received the Navy Cross, Bronze Star and Purple Heart after leading his Marines in a frontal assault up the slopes of Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.
He didn’t make it to the top after taking multiple enemy rounds, but continued to command, leading his men to victory. His platoon raised the first flag atop the mountain, hours before the iconic photo of the second flag raising was captured.
“He was a very warm, sensitive, spiritual man, all the way to age 94,” Connie Schultz, Well’s daughter, told ABC affiliate Denver 7. “He honored and loved the Marine Corps with all his heart and soul. He loved his family, and his last words were, ‘My family.’ ”
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Marine Corps Times
By Matthew L. Schehl
February 17, 2016
Wells, meanwhile, persuaded a corpsman to donate morphine to him, escaped from the hospital ship and joined his men shortly after the flag raising.
John Keith Wells of Abilene, Texas, left, chats with then-Gov. Rick Perry during a brunch that Perry hosted in Wells' honor in 2006. A first lieutenant in World War II, Wells commanded 3rd Platoon, Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during the Battle of Iwo Jima. The unit became the most decorated platoon to fight in a single engagement in the history of the Marine Corps.The Marine who led the charge to place the first American flag above Iwo Jima has died.
(Photo: Harry Cabluck/AP)
First Lt. John Wells, 94, died Feb. 11 at the Arvada Care Rehabilitation Center in Arvada, Colorado.
Wells received the Navy Cross, Bronze Star and Purple Heart after leading his Marines in a frontal assault up the slopes of Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.
He didn’t make it to the top after taking multiple enemy rounds, but continued to command, leading his men to victory. His platoon raised the first flag atop the mountain, hours before the iconic photo of the second flag raising was captured.
“He was a very warm, sensitive, spiritual man, all the way to age 94,” Connie Schultz, Well’s daughter, told ABC affiliate Denver 7. “He honored and loved the Marine Corps with all his heart and soul. He loved his family, and his last words were, ‘My family.’ ”
read more here
Thursday, February 4, 2016
USS Butler WWII Veteran Finally Receives Purple Heart
WWII veteran awarded Purple Heart 70 years after battle
CNN
By Amanda Jackson
February 2, 2016
(CNN)Ninety-year-old Frederick Stone, a former Navy petty officer from New York, received the Purple Heart on Sunday, more than 70 years after the World War II battle where he gave his heroic service.
A Purple Heart medal is awarded to those service members who were killed or injured while serving.
In 1945, Stone was injured in battle while aboard the destroyer USS Butler off the island of Okinawa, Japan.
Although he was injured, Stone helped his fellow serviceman who was seriously wounded get to safety. After helping, Stone returned to his post.
Stone still has shrapnel embedded in his back, according to CNN affiliate News 12 Long Island.
read more here
CNN
By Amanda Jackson
February 2, 2016
(CNN)Ninety-year-old Frederick Stone, a former Navy petty officer from New York, received the Purple Heart on Sunday, more than 70 years after the World War II battle where he gave his heroic service.
A Purple Heart medal is awarded to those service members who were killed or injured while serving.
In 1945, Stone was injured in battle while aboard the destroyer USS Butler off the island of Okinawa, Japan.
Although he was injured, Stone helped his fellow serviceman who was seriously wounded get to safety. After helping, Stone returned to his post.
Stone still has shrapnel embedded in his back, according to CNN affiliate News 12 Long Island.
read more here
Homeless Vietnam Veteran Eton Gilmore Honorable Burial
Woman who served in Vietnam fights to get honorable burial for veteran who died homeless
FOX4 WDAF
Megan Dillard
FEBRUARY 3, 2016
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- At the top of his career, he was wounded and received a Purple Heart. Two weeks ago, he died disabled and homeless in an abandoned house, with no family. Thanks to the efforts of a fellow disabled veteran, Mr. Eton Gilmore will get the burial he deserves.
A quick drive down Woodland Avenue, and the red house seems just like any other. But there's more to the abandoned home and street-side trash pile. Beyond the rubbish is the story of a homeless veteran who lived and died in the home, and the woman who is fighting to make sure he's buried with honors.
Maryannah Mosley is a disabled Vietnam veteran. She spends her time feeding the homeless.
"If they’re veterans, I really reach out. I’m a disabled veteran myself," she said.
FOX4 WDAF
Megan Dillard
FEBRUARY 3, 2016
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- At the top of his career, he was wounded and received a Purple Heart. Two weeks ago, he died disabled and homeless in an abandoned house, with no family. Thanks to the efforts of a fellow disabled veteran, Mr. Eton Gilmore will get the burial he deserves.
A quick drive down Woodland Avenue, and the red house seems just like any other. But there's more to the abandoned home and street-side trash pile. Beyond the rubbish is the story of a homeless veteran who lived and died in the home, and the woman who is fighting to make sure he's buried with honors.
Maryannah Mosley is a disabled Vietnam veteran. She spends her time feeding the homeless.
"If they’re veterans, I really reach out. I’m a disabled veteran myself," she said.
FOX 4 put her in touch with the Department of Veteran Affairs. In a telephone conversation, a spokesperson for the VA said, "He will be buried at no cost to anyone at one of these cemeteries." The spokesperson said the VA wants to help quickly, he appreciates Mosley's efforts, and he's proud of her. "As soon as we’re off the phone, I’m going to push this email over to them."
read more here
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Purple Heart, TBI, PTSD Afghanistan Veteran on Trial?
Lawyer: Framingham man charged in assaults needs help, not jail
Metro West Daily News
By Norman Miller/Daily News Staff
Posted Dec. 18, 2015
FRAMINGHAM – The lawyer for a man accused of threatening to shoot police after a domestic dispute on Wednesday said a Framingham District Court judge’s decision on Thursday to hold him without bail is wrong.
Daniel R. McNulty, 31, a Purple Heart recipient, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after receiving a traumatic brain injury while serving in the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, his lawyer Michael Brennan said. Instead of jail, McNulty needs treatment, he said.
“He clearly needs help and I feel the judge had it wrong,” Brennan said after McNulty’s dangerousness hearing. “When someone who served his country needs help, they should get that help.”
Brennan said McNulty served in the military from 2011-2013. He was injured when when a roadside bomb exploded.
read more here
Metro West Daily News
By Norman Miller/Daily News Staff
Posted Dec. 18, 2015
FRAMINGHAM – The lawyer for a man accused of threatening to shoot police after a domestic dispute on Wednesday said a Framingham District Court judge’s decision on Thursday to hold him without bail is wrong.
Daniel R. McNulty, 31, a Purple Heart recipient, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after receiving a traumatic brain injury while serving in the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, his lawyer Michael Brennan said. Instead of jail, McNulty needs treatment, he said.
“He clearly needs help and I feel the judge had it wrong,” Brennan said after McNulty’s dangerousness hearing. “When someone who served his country needs help, they should get that help.”
Brennan said McNulty served in the military from 2011-2013. He was injured when when a roadside bomb exploded.
read more here
Friday, December 18, 2015
Camp Lejeune Wounded Getting Help to Be Home For Christmas
Marines, sailors wounded in combat getting help to get home for Christmas
WITN News
By: Rachael Cardin, Gina DiPietro
Dec 16, 2015
Combat wounded service members are getting an extra special holiday present from the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
For 11 years, the Purple Heart has been helping combat men and women with travel expenses so they can go home for the holidays.
57 Camp Lejeune service members received money this year. More than 26,000 checks have been awarded since it started 11 years ago.
Chapter members say it all started when their commander asked wounded warriors how the order could help them. A young Marine reportedly said he just wanted to go home for the holidays. More than a decade later, the Purple Heart is still making it happen.
read more here
WITN News
By: Rachael Cardin, Gina DiPietro
Dec 16, 2015
Combat wounded service members are getting an extra special holiday present from the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
57 Camp Lejeune service members received money this year. More than 26,000 checks have been awarded since it started 11 years ago.
Chapter members say it all started when their commander asked wounded warriors how the order could help them. A young Marine reportedly said he just wanted to go home for the holidays. More than a decade later, the Purple Heart is still making it happen.
read more here
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Purple Hearts Approved for Chattanooga Fallen
Purple Hearts to go to victims of Chattanooga terror attack
Stars and Stripes
Tara Coop and Cory Dickstein
December 16, 2015
The ambush on July 16 claimed the lives of one sailor, Navy Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Randall Smith, 26, and four Marines: Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, 40, a Purple Heart recipient for wounds received in Iraq; Lance Cpl. Squire K. Wells, 21; Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, 35, and Sgt. Carson Holmquist, 25.
They were attacked by lone gunman Mohammad Abdulazeez, 24, who fired on the Naval Operational Support Center in Chattanooga. Abdulazeez forced his way onto the facility after shooting at a nearby Chattanooga military recruitment center, where he shot Marine Sgt. DeMonte Cheeley in the leg.The shooter then led police on a chase to the operations support center. Abdulazeez entered the facility with an assault rifle and handgun, killing the five men before he was shot and killed by police.
Cheeley also will receive a Purple Heart, the Navy stated in a news release.
read more here
Stars and Stripes
Tara Coop and Cory Dickstein
December 16, 2015
Family and friends of the U.S. sailor and four Marines killed July 16 in Chattanooga, Tenn., attend a memorial service in Chattanooga, on Aug. 15, 2015. The Navy on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015, announced it would award Purple Hearts to the slain servicemembers after the FBI called the shooting a terror attack. ADRIAN CADIZ/DEFENSE DEPARTMENTWASHINGTON — The Navy said Wednesday that four Marines and one sailor murdered in Chattanooga will receive Purple Hearts after the FBI announced earlier in the day that the July attacks were an act of terrorism.
The ambush on July 16 claimed the lives of one sailor, Navy Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Randall Smith, 26, and four Marines: Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, 40, a Purple Heart recipient for wounds received in Iraq; Lance Cpl. Squire K. Wells, 21; Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, 35, and Sgt. Carson Holmquist, 25.
They were attacked by lone gunman Mohammad Abdulazeez, 24, who fired on the Naval Operational Support Center in Chattanooga. Abdulazeez forced his way onto the facility after shooting at a nearby Chattanooga military recruitment center, where he shot Marine Sgt. DeMonte Cheeley in the leg.The shooter then led police on a chase to the operations support center. Abdulazeez entered the facility with an assault rifle and handgun, killing the five men before he was shot and killed by police.
Cheeley also will receive a Purple Heart, the Navy stated in a news release.
read more here
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Chattanooga Families Still Wait For Terrorism Decision
Tenn. attack still not called terrorism; indecision affects benefits to families
The Washington Post
By Dan Lamothe
Published: December 5, 2015
The July 16 attack killed Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, 40; Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, 35; Sgt. Carson A. Holmquist; Lance Cpl. Squire D. "Skip" Wells, 21; and Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Randall Smith, 26. Other service members and a Chattanooga police officer also were wounded by Mohammad Youssef Abdulazeez, 24, a naturalized U.S. citizen, who was born in Kuwait.
The attack was carried out at the Chattanooga Naval Reserve Center and a recruiting station a few miles away. read more here
The Washington Post
By Dan Lamothe
Published: December 5, 2015
Military officials have proactively prepared Purple Heart nomination packages for the troops involved, said Maj. Rob Dolan, a Marine Corps spokesman in Quantico, Virginia. But the awards are still in limbo while the investigation remains open.
A memorial stands outside of the Armed Forces Recruiting Center Chattanooga on Aug. 13, 2015.WASHINGTON — More than five months after attacks on two military facilities in Chattanooga, Tenn., left four Marines and a sailor dead, federal investigators still have not determined whether the attack was terrorism - and it's financially costing the families of those who died, as Purple Heart awards hang in the balance.
JUSTIN WOLPERT/U.S. NAVY
The July 16 attack killed Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, 40; Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, 35; Sgt. Carson A. Holmquist; Lance Cpl. Squire D. "Skip" Wells, 21; and Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Randall Smith, 26. Other service members and a Chattanooga police officer also were wounded by Mohammad Youssef Abdulazeez, 24, a naturalized U.S. citizen, who was born in Kuwait.
The attack was carried out at the Chattanooga Naval Reserve Center and a recruiting station a few miles away. read more here
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Marine Vietnam Veteran Attacked At Airport By Current Marines
Veteran says he was attacked, shamed at Charlotte airport
WSOC News North Carolina
By Ken Lemon
CHARLOTTE, N.C.
November 18, 2015
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Vietnam veteran and two-time recipient of the Purple Heart said he was attacked Saturday at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.
Jack Hughes, 66, said when he came home from battle in the 1960s, people threw rotten eggs at his uniform. Vietnam was an unpopular war and he expected that back then.
He said he didn't expect to be assaulted by other Marines when he arrived Saturday.
Hughes, who lives in Gastonia, showed Channel 9 the jacket he wore Saturday with his medals and ribbons.
He cried thinking about the feeling he had when he said Marines at the airport accused him of pretending to be a veteran.
"I just can't believe that one veteran or group of veterans would do that to somebody else,” Hughes said.
He said as he got off the plane from a Veterans Day event in St. Louis, another man, claiming to be a Marine himself, walked towards him yelling.
"Your ribbons are crooked. You’re a fake. You are a phony," Hughes said the man shouted.
read more here
Support pours in for Marine vet who says he was shamed at airport
AJC news
Ken Lemon
Nov. 21, 2015
GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — Support has poured in for a Marine veteran who said he was assaulted and shamed by other Marines at Charlotte’s airport.
Jack Hughes sat down for a follow-up interview and discussed the calls and letters that he said saved his life.
Hughes suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder from his stint in Vietnam. He said when the other Marines tried to wrongfully shame him Saturday it sent him back in a regressive state, but the tremendous outpouring of support has been more than a boost. They shouted at him in the airport, and one even tried to rip the ribbons off of his jacket.
read more here
WSOC News North Carolina
By Ken Lemon
CHARLOTTE, N.C.
November 18, 2015
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Vietnam veteran and two-time recipient of the Purple Heart said he was attacked Saturday at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.
He said he didn't expect to be assaulted by other Marines when he arrived Saturday.
Hughes, who lives in Gastonia, showed Channel 9 the jacket he wore Saturday with his medals and ribbons.
He cried thinking about the feeling he had when he said Marines at the airport accused him of pretending to be a veteran.
"I just can't believe that one veteran or group of veterans would do that to somebody else,” Hughes said.
He said as he got off the plane from a Veterans Day event in St. Louis, another man, claiming to be a Marine himself, walked towards him yelling.
"Your ribbons are crooked. You’re a fake. You are a phony," Hughes said the man shouted.
read more here
Support pours in for Marine vet who says he was shamed at airport
AJC news
Ken Lemon
Nov. 21, 2015
GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — Support has poured in for a Marine veteran who said he was assaulted and shamed by other Marines at Charlotte’s airport.
Jack Hughes sat down for a follow-up interview and discussed the calls and letters that he said saved his life.
Hughes suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder from his stint in Vietnam. He said when the other Marines tried to wrongfully shame him Saturday it sent him back in a regressive state, but the tremendous outpouring of support has been more than a boost. They shouted at him in the airport, and one even tried to rip the ribbons off of his jacket.
read more here
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