Dear Editor:
I want to take this opportunity to publicly acknowledge the efforts of Councilman Bill McKeever that resulted in replacing the lost Purple Heart that my late husband Edward earned during his Army service in World War II. Neither I nor my family were expecting, however, to learn that the councilman’s efforts discovered that Ed’s service also entitled him to other recognition including the Bronze Star, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Meritorious Unit Commendation from Lt. Col. US Army Michael Ries citing Ed’s “faithful and dedicated service to our nation during a time of great need” and the Presidential Unit Citation signed by President Barack Obama “on behalf of a grateful nation in recognition of his devoted and selfless consecration to the service of our country.”
My daughter, Susan Gentile, her husband Glenn and all my grandchildren, along with friends and neighbors joined me at the March 10th Town Council meeting where these medals, in a beautifully arranged shadow box, were presented to me. Each of my grandchildren received a copy of the Presidential Unit Citation as well. I was overwhelmed by the ceremony, especially since I was expecting just to have the lost Purple Heart replaced. I thank God for Councilman McKeever for taking the time and effort to find all this part of Ed’s history. He is a best friend to all veterans.
I also want to sincerely thank Mayor Mike Gonnelli and the council members for their part in making this such a memorable evening—one that will always be remembered by me and my family.
Sincerely,
Eleanor Zibowich