MACWAHOC, Maine – U.S. Rep. Bruce Poliquin presented the Purple Heart and a number of other service medals on Friday, Sept. 29, to World War II Veteran Henry Hunter, Jr.
Hunter also celebrated his 99th birthday the same day.
“Mr. Henry Hunter, Jr. is a part of the Greatest Generation that answered the call to serve America during World War II and exemplifies true courage, sacrifice, commitment to duty and love of country,” Poliquin said in a statement issued after the ceremony held Friday afternoon at Hanington Brothers, Inc. “It was a tremendous honor to present Mr. Hunter with our Nation’s Purple Heart Medal, along with several others, to recognize him for his bravery and courageous service for our country, and to celebrate his 99th birthday with him and his family. Thank you, sir, for your service.”
The Purple Heart is the country’s oldest military award and is given to those injured and/or killed in battle. Hunter was wounded on the New Years’ Eve before 1945. On Friday, he was presented the Purple Heart, American Defense Service Medal, Euro-African-Middle East Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Attachment, Silver Star Attachment, WWII Victory Medal, Honorable Service Lapel Button, and Marksman Badge and Rifle Bar.
Poliquin’s office was able to secure the medals for Hunter that the veteran had earned but never received.
Veterans of the 2nd Congressional District or their family members may request military medals or assistance with VA services and benefits by contacting Poliquin’s congressional district offices in Caribou (492-1600), Bangor (942-0583), or Lewiston (784-0768).
