Congressman Patrick McHenry (R, NC-10) announced today his offices in Hickory and Gastonia will be assisting 10th District veterans in an effort to obtain military service awards which were granted to but never received by local veterans and local veterans’ survivors. Due to problems in oversight, it has been estimated that hundreds, and possibly, thousands of service medals and awards were never granted to those entitled to these awards recognizing their service.

“Countless American men and women fought bravely in defense of our nation, but regrettably, did not receive the decorations in recognition of their service,” said Congressman McHenry. “I look forward to working with my staff, the Department of Defense (DOD), and the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) to ensure that every 10th District veteran receives the medals and awards they rightfully earned."

Local veterans who were eligible but did not receive their awards, and also for those veterans who would like replacement medals if their medals were lost, stolen or destroyed, should contact Congressman McHenry's offices in Hickory or Gastonia. If a veteran lives in Buncombe, Gaston or Polk Counties, they should contact Joe Bost at 704-833-0096. For those veterans living in Catawba, Cleveland, Lincoln or Rutherford Counties, they should contact Joanna Rowe at 828-327-6100. These awards will be presented by Congressman McHenry in a ceremony on Wednesday, November 11th, 2015. Complete details on that ceremony will be released closer to the date. 

Any veteran who served during wartime and would like to participate must fill out a Form 180 and a signed Privacy Release allowing Congressman McHenry to make the inquiry on the veteran’s behalf.  Forms are available at both the Gastonia and Hickory offices. The forms must be returned to either Congressman McHenry's Gastonia or Hickory Office no later than 5 PM on Friday, August 28th, 2015. 

NOTE: Congressman McHenry's office can assist veterans with lost or stolen medals at anytime. The 08/28/15 deadline is simply for those who wish to participate in the 11/11/15 ceremony or receive their medals by that date.