Congresswoman Claudia Tenney Presents Late Veterans Family with Military Service Medals
Rome, NY – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) today presented the family of Rome native, Royal V. Smith, with military service medals posthumously. Smith served in the Army and Air Force from 1964 to 1971.
Smith grew up in the greater Rome area and graduated from Oriskany High School in 1964. When Smith passed away in July 2020, his sister, Beth Jones, began requesting his military records and earned military service medals. Tenney’s office worked with the Army and the Air Force to obtain Mr. Smith’s medals, which include 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.
During his service, Smith also earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal both in the Air Force and in the Army. Jones accepted the medals on behalf of Mr. Smith and his family.
“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. I am inspired by his commitment to defending our freedoms. We are a far greater country because of men like Mr. Smith. May God continue to bless our veterans and protect those who continue serving in the military today.”
Since being sworn into the 117th Congress, Tenney’s office has been instrumental in helping many veterans throughout our region obtain their military medals and earned VA benefits. Individuals seeking medals for themselves or loved ones are encouraged to call Tenney’s office at 315-723-0713 to speak to an expert caseworker for assistance.
Earlier this year, Tenney released her Veterans Plan which highlights bills and initiatives in Congress she backs that would ensure our veterans are supported while actively serving in the military or returning to civilian life.
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