98-Year-Old World War ll Veteran Receives Highest Honor
As Veterans Day approaches, it is the perfect time to honor the men and women who have served our country.
In 1944, Private Harry A. Wolfe joined the Army. The United States was in the midst of World War II. Times were frightening for everyone.
During that time, Private Wolfe was sent to France where he fought on the Lorraine front alongside the other men in the 318th Company, 80th Infantry Division, 3rd Army as a rifleman.
The Consulate General of France in Chicago reports that Private Wolfe was eventually sent to fight at the front line.
“On November 8, he was injured during combat after crossing the Seille river,” the Consulate General says. “He laid wounded for nine hours…”
Now Private Wolfe has been awarded a prestigious award at the age of 98. Though nearing 100, the veteran still remembers his time in France.
“The day means to me one word — everything,” Wolfe told Fox 59. The French Legion of Honor Medal awarded to him is France’s most prestigious honor.
“It has just been a blessing because he is so emotional about what he’s done,” Diane Ross, Wolfe’s only daughter who was present for the ceremony, said.
“He didn’t talk about the war when I was growing up, but as he got older, it became more important to him to get the story out,” she went on.
Fox 59 also reported that letters of appreciation from Vice President Mike Pence and Governor of Indiana Eric Holcomb were read during the event.
“You truly embody what it means to be a Hoosier and an American,” Governor Holcomb’s letter reads. “During one of the most difficult periods in our country’s history, you served…”
“This honor is a testament to your courage and sacrifice…” Vice President Pence wrote. “You are an American hero.”
What an amazing and long-awaited tribute to this man. He’s a true example of what it means to be selfless and give everything to protect and serve, not just his fellow Americans, but the citizens of another country as well.
Thank you to Private A. Wolfe and to all the veterans who served. And thank you to the men and women who continue to risk their lives every day so that we can remain free.
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