Purple Heart

Family of World War II soldier finally presented with his Purple Heart

By WBFO Newsroom • Nov 10, 2019

Original Purple Heart documents awarded to a World War II soldier from Buffalo were presented to his family Saturday by Congressman Brian Higgins.

Purple Heart awarded to family of local soldier killed in Iraq

By Mike Desmond • Aug 8, 2019

Under a perfect blue sky on a giant portico overlooking Lake Erie, Daniel Shaw's Purple Hearts were delivered yesterday on Purple Heart Day, symbols of his 2007 death in combat in Iraq.

Infantry private receives medals earned 100 years late

By Marian Hetherly • Oct 15, 2018

It took 100 years, but Pvt. Walter Rydzewski of Lancaster has finally received the Purple Heart and other medals he earned during World War I.

Veterans’ services in Erie County expanding under new SALUTES program

By Avery Schneider & Michael Mroziak • Feb 22, 2018

Erie County Clerk Michael Kearns is expanding local services and recognition for veterans of the United States military.

Family of Deceased Vietnam War Veteran Receive Awards

By Porsha Ari • Jul 5, 2015

Friends and family to deceased war veteran Corporal Robert J. Smith gathered in West Seneca Sunday morning to recognize him for his contributions during the Vietnam War.

Purple Heart awarded 47 years late

By Jay Moran • Apr 24, 2013

As Bob Franz recalls, "The year 1966 didn't start out too well for me." As a new soldier in Vietnam, Franz was wounded on two separate occasions in the first four months of 1966. It took another 47 years before he was officially awarded the Purple Heart he deserved.