State Rep. Gary Howell was recently awarded four long overdue medals he earned 50 years ago while serving in Korea during the Vietnam War. Congressman Paul Mitchell presented the medals to Howell, a U.S. Army veteran. The awards presentation took place at American Legion Post 16 in Lapeer, where Howell is a life member. He is also a life member of the Lapeer Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4139.

Howell was awarded the Korean Defense Medal, National Defense Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal, and the Rifleman’s Medal for marksmanship.

“There are many soldiers who served in combat who deserve far more recognition than I do. However, I am very pleased to finally receive these medals,” Howell said. “Like many young soldiers returning from Asia 50 years ago, I did not take the time to claim the awards that I had earned. We were all focused on getting home and returning to civilian life.”

Howell enlisted in the Army in December 1968 and completed his basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was then assigned to headquarters duty with the U.S. Army Armor Training Center at Fort Knox. In 1970, Howell was sent to Korea to serve with the Korean Military Advisory Group at Yongson. He was honorably discharged at the end of his overseas service and returned to Michigan.

“I am proud to have served my country during time of war,” Howell said. “Receiving these awards brings back many memories of my experiences in Korea 50 years ago. I am appreciative that Congressman Mitchell has helped locate these medals and present them to me.”

Howell plans on displaying his military memorabilia in his Lansing office where he continues his service by representing the citizens of Lapeer County in the Michigan House of Representatives.

American Legion Post 16 Commander Gordon Wildfong, State Representative Gary Howell, Rep. Howell’s wife Cheryl, and Congressman Paul Mitchell together at the medal presentation.