U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) on Friday presented Edward Johnson, an Army veteran from Bedford, with medals earned for honorable service during World War II.
“Edward Johnson is part of the Greatest Generation – a generation of patriotic Americans who put service above self every day. Mr. Johnson deserves recognition for his service to not only our country but our world. I’m honored to present his long-awaited award to him today,” said Rep. Nunn. “As a veteran of the Air Force and current member of the Air Force Reserve, I am committed to supporting current servicemembers and providing resources to veterans who have served our country.”
Edward Johnson entered active service in the U.S. Army in November 1944 at the age of eighteen. After training, he spent one year, three months, and sixteen days in the European Theatre of Operations. His service during this period earned him the World War II Victory Medal, the Army Occupation Medal and Germany Clasp, the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, and the Battle Participation Star for the Campaign “Germany.”
Unfortunately, Edward never received the Battle Participation Star, also known as the Bronze Battle Star, despite it being awarded on May 11, 1945. After nearly eighty years, Rep. Nunn presented the medal to Edward, along with a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol.
As a combat veteran, Rep. Nunn believes taking care of America’s heroes when they return home must be a top priority. Any veteran in the Iowa Third Congressional District in need of assistance navigating the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or other federal agency should contact Rep. Nunn’s district office at (515) 400-8180 or by visiting nunn.house.gov/veterans.
