Congressman Snyder to Present Veteran Rev. Butler Medals 34 Years Overdue Little Rock - U.S. Representative Vic Snyder will award Reverend Thomas Butler of Little Rock medals that he earned in Vietnam over 34 years ago. Congressman Snyder will present Butler with two Bronze Star Medals, one with a ‘V’ device for valor, the Purple Heart, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Air Medal. The ceremony will be held Sunday, August 14 th at 12:15 pm at Greater Archview Baptist Church located at 1720 W. 24 th Street . “ Reverend Butler is one of our heroes,” said Congressman Snyder. “It is a great honor to be part of such a special and overdue presentation.” Mr. Butler was one of only three African Americans to serve as a pilot with the 498th Medical Evacuation Company (Air Ambulance) in Vietnam . During the 825 hours logged as combat flight time, Mr. Butler and his crew transported 1186 patients from the battlefield to field aid units or to regional hospital facilities in the central highlands of Vietnam . Mr. Butler has previously been awarded the Army Aviator Badge, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Expert Marksmanship badges for the rifle and pistol, and unit citation ribbons for service in Vietnam and Laos . WHO: U.S. Rep. Vic Snyder, Reverend Thomas J. Butler WHAT: Medal presentation ceremony WHEN: Sunday, August 14, 12:15 pm WHERE: Greater Archview Baptist Church, 1720 W. 24 th Street in Little Rock -30- |