Gus Presents Veterans With Long-Overdue Service Medals

Monday, 09 July 2012 09:15

Last week, Gus, who is Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, presented military service medals to two constituents.

In a surprise ceremony, Gus presented the Bronze Star Medal, along with a host of other service medals, to Palm Harbor resident Robert Smiddy, who served as part of the U.S. Army's 97th Infantry Division during World War II.

In addition to the Bronze Star, Gus was also instrumental in helping Smiddy get the following service medals: American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge. Smiddy has waited 67 years to receive his medals.

Read more about the medal presentation by clicking here, and watch a news clip below:

In a separate ceremony, Milton Galimatakis of New Port Richey was also presented with several of his military service medals. Galimatakis served in the United States Army during Vietnam, where he earned the Army Commendation Medal – with V device – after he saved a fellow American from a deadly booby trap. He also earned the Cross of Gallantry, Combat Infrantry Badge, the Air Medal, and two Bronze Stars.