On Saturday, June 2, 2018, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) delivered long overdue service medals to World War II Veteran and Fair Lawn resident Corporal Gerald Platt. After learning that Corporal Platt never received his medals, his son, Kevin, contacted Gottheimer’s office for assistance. Gottheimer’s office cut through red tape to secure the medals from the federal government and hosted a ceremony to present Corporal Platt and his family with medals honoring his service to the country.

“I was honored to present Jersey veteran and hero Corporal Gerald Platt with the World War II Victory Medal, the Army of Occupation Medal, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button for his service to our country during World War II,” said Congressman Gottheimer. “To me, there is no commitment more sacred than to those who have served our nation. Veterans like Corporal Platt deserve nothing but the best after risking their lives to defend our freedom. I want anyone in the Fifth District facing problems with a federal agency to contact my office.”

Gottheimer has championed North Jersey veterans in Congress, consistently voting to increase funding for veterans programs. In August, the President signed into law Gottheimer’s amendment to boost hiring of young veterans and improve care at the VA. Gottheimer also passed an amendment to extend the authorization for the Suicide Prevention and Resilience Program for National Guard members, their families, and veterans for 2018.

If you know of any Fifth District veterans missing service medals or in need of assistance with a federal agency, please contact Congressman Gottheimer’s office by phone at (201) 389-1100 or online at Gottheimer.House.Gov.

Below: Congressman Gottheimer presents service medals to Fair Lawn resident and World War II Veteran Corporal Gerald Platt and his family.