Stamford World War II Veteran Receives Overdue Medals

They’re called the ‘Greatest Generation’ — and with good reason.

A Stamford man, who was a member of that generation who served during World War II, has finally received the medals he earned during the war.

Last week, U.S. Rep. Jim Himes (D-4) presented medals — including the Bronze Star, to Anthony A. Viesto who served as a U.S. Army infantryman.

Himes made the presentation at Viesto’s home. Viesto, who will turn 90 in March, finally received the medals he earned — the Combat Infantryman Badge, The Bronze Star, The American Campaign Medal, The European-African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, The World War II Victory Medal, The Army Occupation Medal with German Clasp, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button.

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Himes’ spokesman, Patrick Malone, said, “We’re not 100% sure why he didn’t receive these medals long ago. It was fairly common at the end of the war, however, that soldiers came home as quickly as possible without waiting for medal presentations. I think we all understand that.”

Congratulations to Mr. Viesto on receiving his long-deserved honors for serving his country.

Photos courtesy of U.S. Rep. Jim Himes: World War II veteran Anthony A. Viesto and Congressman Himes.