Congressman Peter Defazio

March 3, 2010

WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Congressman Peter DeFazio (D-Springfield) is working to ensure that every U.S. Army World War II veteran gets the full military honors they have earned. He urges all U.S. Army WW II infantry veterans residing in Oregon’s fourth congressional district to contact his Eugene office about their eligibility for the Bronze Star medal. All U.S. Army World War II veterans who received either the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) or Combat Medic Badge (CMB) during the war are eligible for the Bronze Star medal for meritorious combat service, one of the highest ranking awards given by the military.

Army policy that allows the meritorious Bronze Star medal for CIB and CMB recipients was established after WWII to recognize the service of U.S. Army infantryman and medics who performed their duties during sustained periods of combat. Though the policy has been in effect for over 60 years, most WWII veterans are not aware they are eligible.

“Many brave WWII veterans do not know that they are eligible for a Bronze Star as a result of their distinguished service. I am happy I am able to help them get the recognition they so richly deserve,” DeFazio said.

The Bronze Star recognition is accompanied by an official military medal, certificate, and orders, but does not carry any monetary incentive. Veterans or their family members can initiate a request by providing DeFazio’s staff with official documents, such as a military discharge, listing CIB or CMB. Please call the Congressman’s Eugene office at 541-465-6732 or 1-800-944-9603 for information and/or assistance.