World War II veteran receives Silver Star, Bronze Star, WW II Victory Medal and another half-dozen medals during Veterans Day ceremony at American Legion Post 940.
World War II Army veteran Frank T. Edwards served his country with valor in the European theater, earning several commendations including the Silver Star.
Edwards earned the Silver Star for his actions on April 4, 1945, near Erlach, Germany. After the war, he returned home and led a productive life as a civilian, including earning his doctorate and becoming a professor at California University in Pennsylvania.
But he only received one of the medals he earned through his valor.
On Veterans Day 2020, that changed thanks to an effort by The American Legion.
“Sgt. Edwards had not been recognized nor received all of his medals,” said Michele Deems, commander of the 25th District in the Department of Pennsylvania. “His good friend, Leonard Siegel, another World War II veteran and Cal professor started inquiring about a ceremony for his 94-year-old friend.”
Siegel contacted West Brownsville (Pa.) American Legion Post 940, which led Commander Terry Sanders to reach out to Deems. She contacted state representatives and eventually Congressman Guy Reschenthaler, a Navy veteran.
That led to Edwards finally receiving the Silver Star, Bronze Star, WW II Victory Medal and another half-dozen medals during a Veterans Day ceremony at American Legion Post 940.
“We can never thank you enough Sgt. Edwards, you are a true inspiration to us all,” Sanders told Edwards, who quietly thanked everyone and rendered a snappy salute.
- Honor & Remembrance