Tenney Issues Purple Hearts to Families of WWI Vets
UTICA — Rep. Claudia Tenney, R-22, New Hartford presented the families of veterans Pvt. James E. Overturf and Pvt. Charles A. Wells with Purple Heart medals posthumously in recognition of their service to our nation during World War I in a ceremony on Friday. Both Overturf and Wells served in the Army.
In March, Tenney’s office was contacted by Trena Defranco, granddaughter of Overturf as well as Nicole Wells, great-granddaughter of Wells, who were both seeking posthumous Purple Heart medals for their family members. Tenney’s office immediately contacted the Department of the Army on their behalf and received approval for the medals to be awarded shortly after.
“It is an honor to recognize the heroism of Pvt. Overturf and Pvt. Wells for their military service in World War I. Privates Overturf and Wells fought and bled for our country, helping to secure our sacred freedoms for generations to come. They exemplify the best of what it means to be American patriots. Their families and our community will never forget their sacrifices. The Purple Hearts awarded posthumously today will be an enduring reminder of their noble service,” said Tenney.
Overturf was part of the Machine Gun Company of the 116th Infantry, 29th American Expeditionary Forces in France. He served in the Battles in Alsace and Verdun. In Verdun, on October 23, 1918, James was wounded by an enemy bullet. Following his injury, he was honorably discharged on Jan 8, 1919 from the 1st Company Oversees Convalescent Unit, Camp Grant. His check out was completed Jan 11, 1919.
Wells was part of the 15h/369th Infantry nicknamed “The Harlem Hellfighters” – an all-African American unit. They were sent to assist France when Germany was overpowering them. He was sent to Argonne in the Spring of 1918. During a lengthy battle that turned the tides of the war to lead the U.S. to victory, Wells sustained an injury to his arm. In recognition of his bravery and service, Wells received the “Croix De Guerre” from France and his regiment was cited for a silver star for their heroism during the battle at “Snake Hill.”
In addition to Defranco and Wells, Tenney was joined by Commander of the Central New York Chapter 490 Military Order of the Purple Heart Joe Fraccola, New York State Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, the Mayor of Utica Robert Palmieri, members of the New Hartford American Legion, and members of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Mayor Robert M. Palmieri stated: “The freedoms and the amenities we enjoy in the City of Utica, and throughout this country, are only possible because of the sacrifices made by individuals like Pvt. James F. Overturf and Pvt. Charles T. Wells. These heroes are part of the rich history of our City and we cannot forget that the we all continue to benefit from their courage, fortitude and strength.”
“The bravery of the men and women who choose to defend our country will never be forgotten,”Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon stated.“Our nation made a promise to the veterans who served their country that they would honor their sacrifice and stand by them. Today that promise has been restored as the families of Private Overturf and Private Wells, two of our nation’s World War I heroes, receive the Purple Heart in recognition of their bravery and dedication to our country. It is because of these men that we remain the freest nation on earth. I’m humbled to stand among these families and extend my gratitude and pay tribute to these heroic and honorable veterans.”