Hauppauge Veteran Served as Corporal in the Armed Forces in France

Hauppauge, NY – Today, Rep. Steve Israel (D – Huntington) presented a Bronze Star Medal to World War II Veteran William Grimaldi of Hauppauge, NY. Grimaldi served as a corporal in the U.S. Army overseas in France and entered a downed and burning American B-17 aircraft to rescue airmen near the French/Belgian border. He returned a second time to the aircraft to rescue more crew members and, after receiving orders, took them to General George S. Patton's headquarters nearby. Grimaldi never received his commendations and contacted Rep. Israel for assistance.

Rep. Israel said, "Our veterans put their lives on the line defending our country. It's our duty to make sure they get every medal and every benefit that they've earned. As we celebrate our Independence Day in just over a week, it is important to remember those who have sacrificed to serve our country and fight for the freedoms we enjoy. I'm honored to be able to present William Gramaldi with his long overdue Bronze Star."

Rep. Israel's office was able to obtain the medals through the U. S. Army and is available to assist any veteran who thinks he or she might be entitled to service medals. Rep. Israel has also secured more than $5.5 million in overdue veterans benefits for Long Island veterans.