WWII Veteran Receives Purple Heart After Decades

Glenn Fisher, a 99-year-old World War II veteran from Kentucky, has finally received the Purple Heart, one of the United States’ most honored military distinctions. Fisher was wounded while fighting Nazi Germany, but it took over 80 years for him to be recognized with the award.

Since 1945, Fisher believed he had earned the Purple Heart on the battlefield. On Wednesday, his wait ended during a ceremony at the Frazier History Museum in Louisville. Reflecting on the experience, Fisher expressed his disbelief and joy over finally receiving the recognition.

The Purple Heart is awarded to U.S. military members who are wounded or killed by enemy actions. Fisher’s recognition comes shortly before his 100th birthday. The journey to this moment involved years of unsuccessful appeals aimed at acknowledging his wartime injuries.

“I’ve been so excited, I haven’t been able to sleep at night thinking about what a wonderful thing is happening,” Fisher stated during the ceremony. “Sometimes I’d wake up and say, ‘now, is this really true?’ And it is, it’s really true.”

Fisher’s quest for the Purple Heart became widely known when it was first reported in March, as he hoped to earn the medal before his centennial celebration. His military service began in 1943 when he enlisted in the Army at 16 after securing parental consent. He later landed on Utah Beach in France, suffering injuries on March 25, 1945, when enemy artillery struck his unit near the Rhine River.

Fisher recounted how his war injuries were not properly documented, delaying his receipt of the Purple Heart. Initial attempts to obtain the medal were unsuccessful, with the Army citing insufficient evidence to support the claim.

Despite these hurdles, Fisher persisted, aided by his friend Jeff Thoke. Thoke delved into Fisher’s military history, gathering extensive documentation to support Fisher’s case for the award. At the ceremony, Thoke highlighted Fisher’s patriotism and contributions to the country.

“He represents the best of America,” Thoke said. “We can’t thank him enough for all that he has done. He loves his country; he’s one of the most patriotic men.”

Fisher served with the Army’s 556th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Weapons Battalion. His participation in the Battle of the Bulge and his later encounter with Soviet forces at the Elbe River are notable aspects of his record. These events occurred shortly before the end of World War II.

After returning from the war, Fisher played a role in escorting President Harry S. Truman during his visit to Antwerp, Belgium. This ceremony honors the completion of Fisher’s long-awaited recognition journey.

Efforts to reach the U.S. Army for further comments about Fisher’s Purple Heart remain unanswered.