IRVING – Congressman Kenny Marchant (TX-24) presented overdue service medals on Aug. 10 in Irving to World War Two veteran Ernest Deeds. 

The honored veteran, Ernest Deeds of Irving, served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1945.  During this time, he participated in the Normandy Invasion and the Battle of the Bulge.

Deeds, 88, earned several medals for his wartime service.  Among his many earned awards, Deeds was presented the distinguished Purple Heart for being wounded while serving and the Bronze Star for acts of bravery, merit, and meritorious service.  Other medals and badges of recognition included the Presidential unit citation, Army good conduct medal, American defense service medal, combat infantry badge, American campaign medal, European-African-Middle Eastern campaign medal with bronze star, WWII victory medal,

“Your sacrifice represents a shining example of what’s best of our nation,” said Marchant as he presented the medals to Deeds.  “It is an honor and a distinct privilege to be able to present you the medals you earned.” 

Many veterans like Deeds were unaware that when they left the service for civilian life they were due medals.  Years later and upon hearing that that Marchant was coordinating an effort to recognize our nation’s service members, veterans and their family members have started to reach out.  John Hayes, the military and veterans’ affairs liaison for Marchant, worked with the U.S. Army in order to obtain the overdue medals for Deeds.

Joined by his wife and Congressman Marchant, Ernest Deeds finally received his medals over sixty years after leaving the service. 

If you are a veteran or know of one in Congressional District 24 who has earned awards for their military service but not yet received recognition, please contact John Hayes at Congressman Marchant’s district office at (972)-556-0162. 

Mr. and Mrs. Deeds with Rep. Marchant.  Mr. Deeds is a WWII veteran who was presented overdue service medals including a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. 

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