Community Corner
NH War Hero, 97, Awarded Congressional Gold Medal
Roger Campbell was a member of the Kachin Rangers, who sent coded messages in the Burmese jungle during World War II.
WOLFEBORO, NH -- A 97-year-old New Hampshire war hero was honored by Congress this week for his service in World War II. Roger Campbell (pictured) on Friday was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award for a U.S. civilian. Campbell was a technician for the Office of Strategic Services stationed the Burmese jungle, where he faced hostile enemy soldiers and contracted malaria three times. He and members of his unit used carrier pigeons to send coded messages to allies in the theater.
"Roger served his country with bravery and distinction," New Hampshire U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen said in a statement. Shaheen held a ceremony in Wolfeboro to award Campbell the medal.
Campbell was member of the OSS unit the Kachin Rangers.
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Shaheen called Campbell an "American hero".
"Thank you, Roger, for your service to our nation in its time of great need," she added.
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There are fewer than 100 members of the OSS left today, Shaheen said.
Photo credit: Office Of U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen
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