Murkowski Honors Alaska WWII Veteran for His Service
Click here or the image above to watch a video of Senator Murkowski presenting campaign medals to World War II veteran Harry Olivas.
During the 10th anniversary mission of the Last Frontier Honor Flight, a group of 21 Alaska-based veterans and their chaperones traveled to Washington, DC to visit the national memorials which are dedicated in honor of the wartime service and sacrifice of our veterans.
Among the group was World War II veteran Harry Olivas of Wasilla, Alaska. The now 97-year-old Mr. Olivas served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. For his distinguished service, Mr. Olivas was eligible for several campaign medals, but never received them.
Upon learning about this, Murkowski and her team worked to ensure that Mr. Olivas could receive the awards he earned. After reaching out to the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy, it was determined that Mr. Olivas was eligible for several campaign medals. Murkowski’s office coordinated with the Navy to obtain the medals for Mr. Olivas before his Last Frontier Honor Flight to Washington, DC.
To honor Mr. Olivas’ service to our nation, Murkowski presented him with the following medals during an impromptu ceremony on the National Mall:
- American Campaign Medal
- European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
- Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal
- World War II Victory Medal
- Honorable Service Lapel Pin (Ruptured Duck)
- Navy Honorable Discharge Pin
Click here for photos of Murkowski at the 2023 Last Frontier Honor Flight to Washington, DC.
Transcript of Video
[Senator Murkowski]: This morning was particularly wonderful because I was able to greet one of our treasured World War II veterans, Mr. Olivas.
Mr. Olivas fought in four different campaigns during World War II, but had yet to receive certain of his pins and medals. And so, this morning, in an impromptu ceremony, I was able to present him with two of his pins and four medals from his participation and service in World War II.
[Speaking to Mr. Olivas]: This medal is the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal.
This one is the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal. And here is your medal for your service in World War II.
[[cheers]]
To be here this morning and make the day particularly meaningful for a World War II veteran was absolutely beautiful.
We’re so thankful for all those who have served our country, but particularly thankful for our Alaska veterans.
