Veteran Receives Purple Heart 54 Years After Vietnam Injury

In a poignant ceremony, Carl Smith, a veteran from Larimer County, was awarded the Purple Heart more than five decades after being injured in the Vietnam War. U.S. House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse presented the distinguished medal, marking the culmination of a lengthy journey for Smith, who sustained injuries from explosives during his service. The honor, which should have been bestowed upon him 54 years ago, was delayed due to the military's inability to locate his medical records. Congressman Neguse praised Smith as a local hero, highlighting his bravery and dedication to serving the country. "It's something we can never repay you for, but we'll spend a lifetime trying," he stated, as family, friends, and fellow soldiers applauded Smith's resilience. Overcome with emotion, Smith struggled to express his feelings, prompting his wife to articulate the significance of the recognition, emphasizing the sacrifices he made both physically and emotionally. The ceremony also resonated with the broader experiences of Vietnam veterans, who often returned to a nation that did not honor their service. Iraqi War veteran Lee Cooper addressed this sentiment, urging Smith to accept the medal not only as a personal accolade but as a symbol of national penitence for the treatment of veterans. Neguse reiterated the importance of recognizing veterans like Smith, acknowledging the profound sacrifices they make to ensure the safety and freedom of the nation.