Posted: 3/26/03

Program will salute Normandy vets

Veterans who took part in the Normandy invasion of France in June of 1944 will be honored next month.

Sixth District Congressman Mark Kennedy has announced he will be honoring the World War II veterans during a special ceremony where the Jubilee of Liberty Medal will be presented.

The ceremony will take place on Monday, April 14 at the Anoka American Legion Post, 400 Main St. The event will take place 6-8 p.m.

The Jubilee of Liberty medal honors those soldiers who participated in the invasion of Normandy beach at any time between D-Day on June 6, 1944 and Aug. 31, 1944. Veterans who received the French ìThank Youî certificate can also receive the Jubilee of Liberty medal.

In addition to the medal, each veteran will receive a Congressional certificate from the congressman.

ìI am pleased to give recognition to these veterans who gave so much for others,î Kennedy said in a release.

ìIt was one of the highlights of my first term in Congress to organize these events and I look forward to meeting more Normandy veterans and their families coming to ceremonies.î

Kennedy previously honored some 200 veterans with this medal in seven other ceremonies last year.

Veterans who have already applied for the medal with the congressmanís office will receive an invitation to the next event.

Those veterans who have not applied for the medal, but believe that they may qualify, should request an application from Kennedyís office by leaving their name and full address at 612-867-7964, or by contacting their countyís veteranís service officer for an application.

Applications will be taken up to the time of the event in Anoka on April 14. Applications must include a copy of discharge papers showing action in Normandy or northern France during the specified period of service.

The ceremony in April will be open to the public and family members.

Top of Page