Despite a lifetime of selfless service and enduring injuries in World War II, 100-year-old veteran Harvey Drahos has been unable to obtain his well-deserved Purple Heart award due to bureaucratic errors and mishaps.
He Is a War Veteran
100-year-old World War II veteran, Harvey Drahos, dedicated his life to helping others during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.
His Purple Heart Eludes Him
Despite his remarkable contributions to his community and service to the country, one thing has eluded him: his Purple Heart award.
The Injuries He Sustained
Drahos, who suffered shrapnel wounds, brain damage, and PTSD during the war, has been unable to receive the medal due to bureaucratic errors and mishaps.
His Attempts Were Met With Complications
For nearly 80 years, Drahos has made numerous attempts to correct clerical mistakes and secure his Purple Heart.
Incorrect Paperwork
However, his discharge papers incorrectly listed him as part of the 90th regiment instead of the 96th infantry, causing complications in the process.
His Records Were Destroyed
In 1973, a fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis destroyed his records, further hindering his efforts.
Unsuccessful Attempts
Despite seeking help from representatives, senators, and veteran organizations, all attempts to rectify the situation have been unsuccessful.
He Underwent Heart Surgery
Drahos, who turned 100 in January, recently underwent aortic valve replacement surgery. He is currently in recovery.
Recognition Hopes
Although he remains determined, he wants to move on and start a new chapter in his life. However, members of his community, such as Karen Schoessel, still hope he will receive the recognition he deserves.
Friends Are Trying to Fix the Errors
Schoessel, a friend of Drahos, has been actively involved in advocating for his Purple Heart.
She has meticulously sorted through documentation and correspondence and has coordinated with U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland to no avail.
How Do You Get a Purple Heart?
To receive a Purple Heart for military service, an individual must meet the following general requirements.
They must sustain a qualifying injury caused by enemy action or a terrorist attack, seek immediate medical attention and document all treatments, notify the chain of command about the injury, then complete the Purple Heart award application.
The Purple Heart is awarded in a formal ceremony if all this is completed and approved.
Connecting Veterans
In her tireless efforts to help Drahos, Schoessel has connected him with Rishi Sharma, the creator of Remember WWII, a YouTube channel dedicated to preserving the stories of combat veterans.
Raising Awareness
Sharma, who considers these veterans his heroes, hopes that sharing Drahos’s story will bring attention to his situation and potentially lead to a resolution.
He Wants to Inspire Future Generations
Regardless of the outcome, Drahos remains positive and hopes that his story will inspire and educate younger generations.
Positive Mindset
He believes that dedication, a positive mindset, and making one’s own decisions are crucial in achieving personal goals and shaping a fulfilling future.
Will His Determination Pay Off?
Harvey Drahos’s unwavering commitment to serving others and his enduring spirit are a testament to the resilience and determination of the greatest generation.
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The post “Admin Errors” – 80-YEAR Wait for 100-Year-Old War Hero’s Purple Heart first appeared on Wealthy Living.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / fizkes. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
Source: militarytimes