WWII vet receives Bronze Star he earned more than 70 years ago

August 16, 2017 11:08 am

By: News Staff

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CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — A World War II living in North Smithfield received the Bronze Star and other medals he earned, more than 70 years after the war.

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed presented 91-year-old James Coppola, of North Smithfield with the medals at his office in Cranston Wednesday afternoon.

He said Coppola saw "significant combat action" when he served in the U.S. Army during the war.

“Mr. Coppola earned the Bronze Star for his heroic actions on the battlefield," said Senator Reed, the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. "World War II veterans like Mr. Coppola continue to inspire us and we will never forget their great contributions to defending our freedom.”

Coppola earned several other military awards, including: the Good Conduct Medal; Meritorious Unit Commendation; European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal With 2 Bronze Service Stars; World War II Victory Medal; Army of Occupation Medal with Germany Clasp; Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award; Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII; and Marksman Badge With Rifle Bar.