WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) today joined Vietnam War veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Paul Bucha in presenting Bronze Stars, and other service medals, to Bridgeport veterans Sergeant Donald F. Dean and Army Sergeant Harry Ruderman. Both men have waited decades to receive their medals.
Photos of the event may be viewed here.
“I am grateful for Mr. Dean’s and Mr. Ruderman’s service to our country and am pleased that my office was able to assist them in finally securing the medals honoring their sacrifice,” said Himes.
Sergeant Ruderman, a WWII veteran who started his military career with the 242nd US National Guard Unit in Bridgeport, saw active duty from 1942 through 1945 with the US Army 79th Infantry Regiment. His regiment was sent to Normandy, France on June 14, 1944 (D-Day) and later, to Germany, Czechoslovakia and Russia. Sergeant Ruderman was awarded eight medals, including the Bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal.
Sergeant Dean, a Combat Field Medic, served on active duty in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954. Sergeant Dean later spent over 20 years in the U.S. Army Reserves. Sergeant Dean was also honored with a number of Medals, including the Korean Service Medal and Bronze Star Attachment and the United Nations Service Medal.
Flanked by their family members, Sergeants Dean and Ruderman recalled their years of service and expressed their gratitude to the Congressman for obtaining their medals.
“I am very happy to receive these medals. I have waited a long time for them and am so thankful to the Congressman and his office for his help,” said Sergeant Ruderman.