Bristol Resident Gets Long Overdue Congressional Medals

A 70-year quest ended on Tuesday, as a World War II veteran finally received the medals he earned during World War II.

Bristol resident Arthur Medeiros, 92, formally received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star from U.S. Rep. David Cicilline in a morning ceremony at the Bristol War Veterans Honor Roll Garden on Hope Street.

“I am so grateful to Congressman Cicilline and his staff for their invaluable assistance with my case,” Medeiros said in a statement released by Cicilline's office. “After nearly 70 years, I thought today might never come — but I am so happy that it has.” 

Official records show that Medeiros was injured during the Battle of the Bulge, an Allied counteroffensive in December, 1944, against a surprise German attack in the Ardennes region of France.

An estimated 47,500 American troops were injured in the month-long battle, which also claimed more than 80,000 U.S. lives.

Medeiros earned an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army in 1945 — but apparently was never awarded his medals.

"Mr. Medeiros is a true hero who put his life on the line to protect our country during the most destructive conflict of modern times,” said Cicilline.  “I am extraordinarily grateful for his service, and I look forward to continuing to provide similar assistance to families across our district."