Decades later, Korean War POW receives medals

Advocate Press: Decades later, Korean War POW receives medals
Flora, Ill. — Korean War Army veteran Dale E. Jones of Xenia was honored for his service this Wednesday when U.S. Representative John Shimkus, R–Collinsville, presented him with medals that he was not awarded while actively in the service.

“My father served in Korea, but he didn’t have to stay as long as you did,” said Shimkus to Jones, a former Prisoner of War (POW).

“I’ve done numerous of these,” said Shimkus, who added that while the public was always receptive to a soldier receiving medals years or decades after their discharge, “I’ll be honest with you, I’ve never seen a turnout like this. You do the community proud.”

The turnout was impressive, with easily over 100 people crowding into the conference room at Xenia’s firehouse for the event.

“We just want to make sure that the folks who have earned these get them,” said Shimkus.

Shimkus also commented on the different medals Jones received. The Prisoner of War Medal is the one that Shimkus pinned onto Jones’ chest as part of the ceremony.

The other medals Jones received were given to him on a display placard and included the Army of Occupation Medal with Japan Clasp, The National Defense Service Medal, The Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, The Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, the United Nations Service Medal and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

The last medal Jones received was the Combat Infantryman Badge. “As an Infantryman myself,” said Shimkus, “When you get the C.I.B., as it’s called that means that you have been in conflict, you have been under fire. A lot of people serve, but not all of them serve under combat conditions and that’s an indication that you did that.”

Shimkus then put the placard down and pinned the POW Medal onto Jones’ chest and followed by shaking his hand. After this, the American Legion Color Guard called the room to attention and then allowed them to sit again.

Shimkus then offered the microphone to Jones, who made a motion that his lips were sealed, but decided to speak anyway and briefly thank the crowd.

“I want to thank everybody for coming here,” said Jones. “I never knew I had so many friends...anyway, thank you all for coming.”

After Jones finished the crowd applauded, which quickly became a standing applause in Jones’ honor.

“Obviously we have to make sure Dale gets the awards due him,” said Shimkus, “But there’s some young children here...there’s media here...by telling the sacrifice of those who have gone before, our future service people, this prepares them for the challenges that they may have to someday face.”