Larson Presents Wife of Late Bristol Vietnam Veteran with Service Medals
Bristol, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) posthumously presented the service medals of Army Veteran, Gary R. Samela, to his wife Susan Samela. Samela served in the Army from 1969 to 1972, where he was deployed to Vietnam. He enlisted in the Army Reserves after being discharged from the Army until 1975.
"I was honored to present Gary Samela's family with his service medals today. The Vietnam War reminds us of the distinction between the warrior and the war," said Larson. "Vietnam veterans served our country bravely and sacrificed greatly for our freedom, but came home to a public largely indifferent to their struggles. We must never let that happen again. I'm proud we were able to honor Mr. Samela for his service."
Larson presented Mrs. Samela with her husband's Air Medal, a Bronze Star, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Valorous Unit Award, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with "60" Device, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge 1st award, and the Sharp Shooter Badge with Rifle Bar.
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