ABC15 Advocates for Mesa WWII Veteran Trying to Get Purple Heart Award
Local News Station Highlights Veteran's Story
ABC15, a local news station in Arizona, is advocating for a Mesa WWII veteran who is trying to get the Purple Heart award he says he earned.
The veteran, 98-year-old Frank Alvarado, served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was wounded in action in Italy. He says he was hit by shrapnel in the leg and was treated at a field hospital.
Alvarado says he was never awarded the Purple Heart, which is given to members of the U.S. military who are wounded or killed in action.
Veteran's Story Gains Attention
ABC15's story about Alvarado has gained attention on social media and has prompted the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to review his case.
The VA says it is looking into Alvarado's claim and will make a decision on whether or not to award him the Purple Heart.
Purple Heart Award Eligibility
According to the VA, a service member is eligible for the Purple Heart if they are wounded or killed in action as a result of an enemy act.
The VA also considers other factors, such as whether the service member was in combat and whether they were injured as a result of the enemy's actions.
Alvarado's Case
Alvarado's case is unique because he was not awarded the Purple Heart at the time of his injury.
The VA says that it is not uncommon for veterans to wait many years to apply for the Purple Heart.
The VA encourages veterans who believe they are eligible for the Purple Heart to apply for the award, regardless of how much time has passed.
How to Apply for the Purple Heart
Veterans who believe they are eligible for the Purple Heart can apply for the award by submitting a DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, and a DD Form 2860, Application for Purple Heart.
The forms can be submitted to the VA regional office that has jurisdiction over the veteran's place of residence.
The VA will review the veteran's application and make a decision on whether or not to award the Purple Heart.
