WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) will tomorrow honor a
Southern Missouri veteran with a Purple Heart for his service in America’s Armed Forces.

 

At 3:45 p.m. CDT, Emerson will award a Purple Heart to Mrs. Martha Davis, in recognition of the bravery of her husband, Corporal James L. Davis.  Corporal Davis, who passed away March 30, 2002, served in the Koran War with the 31st Artillery Battery, 2nd Infantry Division.  On the 11th of February, 1951, Corporal Davis received shrapnel wounds to his right arm in action. 

 

“I am very proud to be able to present this Purple Heart to the family of an American hero who certainly earned it,” Emerson said.  “We make many sacrifices to defend freedom in the world, but none are as great as those who leave their homes and families for the cause of liberty. Corporal Davis’ bravery from 1951 reminds us of how fortunate we are to have men like him serving our nation today.”

 

Earlier in the afternoon, at 3:00 p.m. CDT, Emerson will meet with Steven Hilgedick, a student she has nominated to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.

 

“We are continuing in service to our nation here in Southern Missouri, and Steven is an example of how a new generation is taking up the duty so honorably discharged by the men who earned these awards many years ago,” Emerson said.  “As we continue to stand behind our men and women in uniform serving right now, it is also important we look to the past and to the future.”