85 year old veteran served on a minefield clearing ship in the Navy

Commack, NY – On Saturday, Reps. Steve Israel (NY-2) and Tim Bishop (NY-1) presented four overdue service medals and a lapel pin to an ailing Long Island World War II Navy veteran. Quartermaster 2^nd Class Frank Gaeta, now 85, served in the Pacific aboard a mine clearing ship, the USS Scurry, from 1943-1946.

“What better time to honor Frank Gaeta with his overdue medals than Memorial Day weekend? Frank left his home and his family to serve his country for three years during World War II. When he returned, he never thought to ask for recognition or honor. He says he ‘was just doing his job,’” said Rep. Israel. “Today, we can finally honor him for doing a job that meant so much to our country."

“One of the most important services of my office is to help veterans, and I’m very pleased that Frank Gaeta is finally getting the recognition he deserves for his valiant service in World War Two,” said Rep. Bishop.

The awards presented include: American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, and Honorable Service Lapel Button.

Reps. Israel and Bishop regularly work with Long Island veterans who need assistance with overdue service medals or other issues involving the Veterans Administration. Rep. Israel has helped secure more than $3.7 million in back payments for Long Island veterans.

Rep. Israel serves on the House Appropriations Committee. Rep. Bishop serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Education and Labor Committee and Budget Committee.