Michigan's Vietnam War veteran reportedly received military honors more than 50 years after leaving the US Navy. The award arrived after struggling to publish the records.
Vietnamese veteran Carl Smith, who graduated from Muskegon High School in Michigan and enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17 while at school, received a service medal on Wednesday. Report wzzm 13.
Deployed in Vietnam and serving in the Navy from 1969 to 1973, Smith received five awards: Navy “E” Ribbon, National Defence Force Medal, Military Expedition Medal (Korea), Vietnam Service Medal (one Bronze Campaign Star), and the prestigious preparatory discharge button.
“It is a joy to honor Carl Smith and celebrate the US Navy's service to our nation. Carl is an exemplary sailor and, after his service, dedicated to keeping the community safe as a Muskegon County firefighter and police officer.”
“A brave service member like Carl deserves recognition. It is an honor to present him with the award he served our country 50 years ago,” added Mourenar.
Smith served the USS Halsey After being assigned to the fleet at the age of 18 and deployed in the Western Pacific during the Vietnam War, Report wood-tv.
“The medals don't mean as much to me as their grandchildren,” he added that Smith, who was surrounded by his family when he received military honors, is still waiting for him to receive his certificate.
The award reportedly came after a struggle to reveal records confirming medal-qualified Smith.
“The ship I was on was a missile frigate. It was called a Leah-Class ship. All Leah-Class ship records are still sealed. Of these, over 44 were built from 1962 to 75.”
After years of trying to prove his service, Smith contacted Mourenard's office for help. A team of state representatives reportedly worked with the Department of Defense (DOJ) to verify the records.
“We want to do everything we can to do our research and truly recognize the incredible service to our country,” Mourenar said.
Smith added that Vietnam and South Korean veterans are not receiving the appreciation they deserve.
“When I could stay home, you were told not to wear your uniform,” he said. “I fought for that uniform, and that uniform still means something to me today.”
Alana Mastrangelo is a reporter for Breitbart News. You can follow her Facebook and x at @armestrangeloand on Instagram.
