MILITARY MEDALS RETURNED TO LATE VETERAN'S FAMILY IN ROME

ROME, N.Y. -- The family of a veteran who passed away last year received his military medals in Rome Friday after.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney worked with the Army and Air Force to bring Royal V. Smith’s medals home to his family members after his sister, Beth Jones, requested his records and medals following his death.

Smith served in the Army and Air Force from 1964 to 1971, earning the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Service Stars, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Republic of Vietnam Ribbon with "1960" Device. 

“It is my great honor to present Mr. Royal V. Smith’s family with the military service medals he rightfully earned during his time in the Air Force and Army. As we continue celebrating Veterans Day this week, may we all remember the bravery and service of our treasured veterans like Mr. Smith,” said Tenney.

Mayor Jacqueline Izzo was also there when Tenney presented the medals to Smith’s family.