Vietnam Veteran Honored With Bronze Star

BERKLEY (WWJ) - An overdue honor is given to a disabled Vietnam Veteran in Berkley on the Fourth of July.

Michigan U.S. Senator Carl Levin presented the Bronze Star to Ken Richardson for his meritorious achievement while serving in Vietnam.

Richardson is the commander of the Disabled American Veterans in Berkley.

Levin says it's important to recognize and honor the brave men and women of this country.

The medal had yet to be engraved and will be returned to Richardson after it is completed - leaving Levin to awkward statement: "I'm going to show it to you and then I'm going to take it right back," said Levin. "I know someone out there said 'typical Washington'," he added with a laugh.

Levin noted that the award comes 43 years late.

"When we can present medals to the brave men and women who put the uniform of our country on, particularly on July 4th, but on any day, it gives us a huge lift. It means everything to me personally," added Levin.

The medal was presented at the Disabled American Veterans Hall in Berkley.