Hudson Presents Bronze Star to WWII Veteran
February 17, 2021
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Nearly seventy-six years after his service in World War II, veteran Ormand Strickland was presented with the Bronze Star today by U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08). During a ceremony at Fayetteville Fire Department #14, Rep. Hudson thanked Strickland for his service as he presented him with the award, which Rep. Hudson worked to secure over the past year.
"Mr. Strickland served our country as part of the Greatest Generation and was wounded for his courageous actions in Germany. Honoring him and WWII veterans like Mr. Strickland is critical to inspire and teach future generations what real heroes look like," said Rep. Hudson. "As Fort Bragg's Congressman, I was humbled to present the Bronze Star to Mr. Strickland so that he finally has this recognition he deserves."
Ormand Strickland enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 1944, one month before his 20th birthday. While his service began at Fort Bragg with the 36th Infantry Division, he soon found himself in Germany where he was injured as part of the Rhineland Offensive. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and was recognized with several decorations, including the Purple Heart for an injury sustained while leading a tank battalion around a minefield.
While he should have received the Bronze Star upon completion of his service, the award was never presented. Rep. Hudson's office was alerted about this in May 2020 and was able to secure the citation from the U.S. Army in December.
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Issues:Veterans