Larson Stands with Veterans Organizations

Statement

Today Congressman John B. Larson released the following statement on reports that Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel will be reviewing the recently approved Distinguished Warfare Medal:

"After meeting with Veterans from the first district including John Hollis and members of the America legion, I strongly agree with their opposition to ranking the Distinguished Warfare Medal above combat medals including the Bronze Star. In Hartford I am proud to have Ryan Dion, a wounded warrior, working on behalf of veterans in Connecticut. I have seen the challenges Ryan and other soldiers wounded in combat have had to overcome, and believe their sacrifice deserves our nation's highest praise. While all members of our armed forces deserve recognition for the valuable work they do, the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and other combat medals have a special significance in our nation's history. I applaud Secretary Hagel for his review, and urge him to promptly make this change in the ranking order."

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