Army World War II Veteran Receives Overdue Medals

An Army veteran was finally presented with long-overdue medals for the service he gave to the country during World War II many years ago.

Fred Carlage, 99, was honored in a ceremony on Tuesday at the Killingly Community Center in Danielson, Connecticut, where one of the state’s senators handed the medals to him personally.

“Here you are Fred,” U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said, handing the medals to Carlage.

During his service, Carlage has earned and received the Air Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. He also earned the World War II Victory Medal and World War II Lapel button, but never received them – until Tuesday.

Carlage, who received a standing ovation, said the medals were a surprise.

“Humbled is the word that comes to mind," he said.

Carlage’s daughter, Sharon Wojcik, made the moment even more special when she presented him with another token.

“Dad I want you to once again have this original officer's hat,” she said.

Carlage’s face lit up as his daughter placed the hat on him and thanked everyone with a salute to his audience.

Carlage served in World War II between 1941 and 1945 and flew 47 combat missions.

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