Governor Jim Pillen recently honored four residents of the Central Nebraska Veterans Home, including two World War II veterans, Elmer Heeren and Dr. John R. Finkner, for their service to the country. The ceremony, part of Nebraska’s World War II Recognition Program, recognized living veterans who served in the U.S. armed forces between 1941 and 1946 and were legal residents of Nebraska. The newly designed World War II recognition medal was presented to the veterans in a ceremony that marked the upcoming 80th anniversary of the war’s end.
The state of Nebraska created the WWII recognition medal to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans. The medal, designed by the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, is a symbol of gratitude to those who served the nation during World War II. Governor Pillen expressed his deep appreciation for the veterans’ contributions and highlighted the significance of recognizing and thanking these heroes for their service to the country.
Living WWII veterans in Nebraska, including those residing in veterans’ homes, are encouraged to apply for the medal through the state’s recognition program. The Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs aims to honor and thank every Nebraska veteran of World War II for their service and sacrifices. The program seeks to ensure that the stories and experiences of these veterans are acknowledged and remembered for generations to come.
According to the National World War II Museum, the number of surviving veterans from that era has significantly dwindled, with only a fraction of those who served still alive today. The museum estimates that just a small percentage of the 16.4 million individuals who served in the war are still living, with most of them in their 90s or older. This highlights the urgency and importance of recognizing and honoring these veterans while they are still with us.
The creation of the WWII recognition medal and the ongoing ceremonies to honor veterans serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in World War II. The medals symbolize the nation’s gratitude and respect for the bravery and dedication of these individuals who played a crucial role in defending freedom and democracy during a pivotal moment in history.
As Nebraska prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the recognition program serves as a fitting tribute to the veterans who selflessly served their country. The medals not only honor the individual veterans but also serve as a reminder of the collective sacrifices made by an entire generation during a time of global conflict and uncertainty.
The ceremony in Kearney, where the medals were presented to the veterans, exemplifies the state’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the contributions of its WWII veterans. The event was a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of these individuals and a tribute to their service and dedication to the nation.
Through programs like the World War II Recognition Program, states like Nebraska are ensuring that the stories and experiences of WWII veterans are preserved and shared with future generations. The medals serve as a tangible token of appreciation for the veterans’ service and a lasting tribute to their courage and sacrifice during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
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