ICYMI: Bresnahan Presents Long-Overdue Purple Heart to Vietnam Veteran
REEDERS, PA: Yesterday, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) presented long-overdue military honors to Vietnam War veteran Thomas M. Barnes, recognizing his extraordinary service, sacrifice, and bravery in combat.
“Ensuring that veterans receive the recognition they have earned is one of the most meaningful responsibilities of this office,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “It was an honor to help correct this oversight and properly recognize Mr. Barnes for his service and sacrifice to our nation.”
For decades, several of the medals Mr. Barnes earned through his military service were never formally presented. After being contacted by Monroe County Veterans Affairs, Congressman Bresnahan's constituent services team worked closely with the appropriate military agencies to locate and secure the honors Mr. Barnes had rightfully earned but never received.
Mr. Barnes served as an Army Ranger with Company L, 75th Infantry, attached to the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. On June 5, 1970, while conducting combat operations in Vietnam, then-Private First Class (PFC) Barnes and his patrol came under enemy fire. Despite being seriously wounded, PFC Barnes continued returning fire, helping his fellow soldiers establish a defensive perimeter and reduce further casualties.
For his actions that day, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for valor. Although he later received recognition for the wounds he sustained in combat, several of the honors he earned were never formally presented, including the Purple Heart.
During yesterday's ceremony, Rep. Bresnahan presented Mr. Barnes with the following military decorations:
- Purple Heart Medal
- Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device
- Good Conduct Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Service Stars
- Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device
“The medals presented today are more than decorations,” Rep. Bresnahan said. “They are lasting symbols of dedication, discipline, courage, and an unwavering commitment to our country. Mr. Barnes's story is a powerful reminder of why this work matters and why we must never stop honoring those who have served.”
Rep. Bresnahan expressed his gratitude to Monroe County Veterans Affairs for helping bring the matter to his office and reaffirmed his commitment to assisting veterans and their families in securing the benefits, records, and recognition they have earned.
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