PHOTOS: Young Presents Purple Heart to Hoosier Veteran

BRAZIL, IND. – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today attended a military service medal ceremony at the Clay County Courthouse where he presented Mr. Paul Lucas of Poland, Indiana with the Purple Heart he earned during the Korean War. Senator Young also presented Mr. Lucas with several other medals he earned, including the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two bronze service stars, Combat Infantry Badge (1st Award), and United Nations Service Medals.

“Today we honored a great American hero,” said Senator Young. “Two months ago, I was contacted by Mr. Lucas and as soon as I heard his story I wanted to help. One of the best parts of my job is ensuring veterans, like Mr. Lucas, receive the recognition they have earned, especially when it’s such a long time coming. Helping veterans and their families track down their military service medals is one of the many services I am proud to provide constituents, and I’m thrilled I was able to present Mr. Lucas with his medals today.”

Mr. Lucas grew up near Farmersburg, in Sullivan County, Indiana. He joined the Army and achieved the rank of Sergeant. While serving in Korea, Mr. Lucas was wounded by shrapnel and spent three months in the hospital before returning home.

Mr. Lucas contacted Senator Young’s office two months ago because he never received the Purple Heart he earned on account of his injuries. Members of Senator Young’s staff looked into his records and found that he had earned several other medals in addition to the Purple Heart.

Photos from today’s event are included below: