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LARSON AWARDS BRONZE STAR TO EAST HARTFORD VETERAN

November 2, 2000
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 2, 2000

LARSON AWARDS BRONZE STAR TO EAST HARTFORD VETERAN

EAST HARTFORD-U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) today presented the military's Bronze Star Medal to Andrew J. Dolan, 86, of East Hartford. The medal is given for "heroic or meritorious achievement" in battle against opposing forces during the course of military service. Dolan served in the U.S. Army from April 1942 to January of 1946, in the 89th Division, 354th Infantry Regiment. Sergeant Dolan was part of his regiment's artillery unit that fought to cross the Rhine River in March 1945, only weeks before Germany surrendered. Roughly a third of his unit was killed by German gunfire, as Dolan and his unit shelled the enemy position.

Dolan and his wife of 56 years, Rose, contacted the Department of Defense more than three years ago, in an effort to obtain the award. Later, Mr. and Mrs. Dolan also contacted Congressman Larson's Hartford office, which assisted them in their efforts, and Dolan was informed over the summer that he would be receiving the medal.

"It is an honor to be able to present this award to Mr. Dolan for his service to our nation during the war," said Larson. "Andrew Dolan and his fellow Veterans, both living and deceased, fought for their nation with honor, courage, and distinction; and from their powerful sense of duty, they risked their lives for the cause of freedom, as so many members of the greatest generation did. Although he is a modest man, it takes a particular kind of bravery to put your own life on the line and offer to make the ultimate sacrifice for your nation."

Larson presented the award to Dolan in the community room of the Saint Mary apartments in East Hartford this morning.

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