Community Corner
Illinois Treasurer Returns Purple Heart That Belonged To Late World War II Veteran From Oak Lawn
Army Rifleman James R. Bennett was wounded twice fighting during World War II, in France on Aug. 13, 1944, and in Germany on Dec. 13, 1944.
Updated on: November 11, 2025
A Purple Heart is one of the most prestigious awards a member of the military can receive.
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Now, Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs is helping the family of a World War II veteran get it back.
Army Rifleman James R. Bennett was wounded twice while fighting during World War II — in France on Aug. 13, 1944, and in Germany on Dec. 13, 1944.
