Long overdue

Sussex County-Almost 40 years after serving his country in Viet Nam, Hamburg resident John Mirabella received three different awards for his heroism and bravery while serving as a rifleman in the Army's 1st. Cavalry Company B. Mirabella, who was discharged from the Army in 1967, would have been eligible to receive these honors at that, time but his discharge papers were not in order. "At that time it really wasn't too important to me. And I really didn't think about it too much. However, as the years went on I got involved with the VA, who encouraged and helped me to get the papers in order," he said. "Now I have two grandchildren and it seems more important to me that I can show them the medals." Congressman Scott Garrett gave the opening speech, thanked Mirabella and told him that all Americans owe him a debt of gratitude for his service and heroism. Mirabella was presented with a Purple Heart, a Combat Infantry badge and a Good Conduct medal by General Izzo of Picatinny Arsenal. "There is no greater honor for a soldier than for one soldier to honor another," Izzo said. "You are an American hero."