Messmer Presents Purple Heart and Air Medal to Vietnam Veteran Gary Long

BRAZIL, IN - Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, presented the Purple Heart and Air Medal to Vietnam veteran Gary Long at VFW Post 1127 in Brazil, Indiana. Mr. Long was joined by his family and fellow members of the VFW for the ceremony.

"Gary, you served your country with distinction during a difficult war, and you bore the physical consequences. Nothing we do here today can repay that sacrifice," said Rep. Messmer. "But we can make sure it is remembered and recognized, and that you know your country is grateful for your honorable service."

More than five decades after his awards for his service in Vietnam were stolen, today's presentation restores a worthy recognition of a beloved veteran that the Brazil community and all Hoosiers are proud to call one of their own. Mr. Long received the Purple Heart for wounds sustained during a firefight in Vietnam and the Air Medal for his service as a helicopter door gunner.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is supporting America's veterans in the House of Representatives, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

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