Magaziner Presents Military Honors to North Kingstown Vietnam Veteran, Resolving 50 Year Delay
NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — Today, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02) presented Vietnam veteran, Specialist 4th Class Kenneth Barber with military honors he earned during his service but never received.
Barber enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1970 for a three-year term, during which he piloted helicopters in Vietnam. Decades later, after Barber contacted Magaziner’s office for assistance, those long-overdue medals were finally issued and presented today during a small ceremony.
“Veterans like Kenneth Greenwood Barber represent the very best of our country, putting service above self,” said Magaziner. “I am honored to help ensure his service is properly recognized with the medals he rightfully earned.”
Mr. Barber contacted the Office of Representative Magaziner for assistance in obtaining medals he earned during his service in the United States Army and a copy of his military record. On December 4, 1971, his helicopter was instrumental in rescuing an Air Force helicopter and its crew.
The Office of Representative Magaziner submitted the inquiry to the Department of the Army and the National Archives & Records Administration. After correspondence with the agencies, the office received notification that Mr. Barber was entitled to an Army Air Medal, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, a United States Army Marksman Weapons Qualification Badge, and a Vietnam Campaign Ribbon & Silver award.
The medals were presented to Mr. Barber today during a small ceremony at Bayview Rehabilitation in North Kingstown.
Constituents of Rhode Island’s Second Congressional District who need assistance with a federal agency can visit Magaziner’s website to submit a request or call the Warwick district office at (401) 244-1201.
