EG WWII Vet Gets Long Overdue Medals, Recognition

Nearly 70 years after fought in World War II, Mr. John F. Anderson, 90, of East Greenwich, an Army combat veteran, finally has received the military decorations he earned for his service.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed on Friday presented Mr. Anderson with a number of awards, including the Army’s Good Conduct Medal; the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and Bronze Star Attachment (double); the World War II Victory Medal; the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII; and the Marksman Badge and Rifle Bar, in recognition of Mr. Anderson’s service in the U.S. Army during World War II.

During World War II, Mr. Anderson was a Corporal serving in the Northern African and European theatres, including Southern France and Rhineland, as a member of Battery B 112 Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion. 

“On behalf of Americans everywhere, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Anderson for his distinguished service to our nation.  He has earned not only these medals and military honors but our enduring gratitude,” said Reed, a former Army Ranger and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. 

The attention to orders from the medal ceremony lauded Mr. Anderson’s “exemplary conduct, efficiency and fidelity while on active duty engaged in combat operations with an enemy of the United States during World War II.”  The orders continued: “Mr. Anderson’s service was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States of America.”

Mr. Anderson was 19 years old when he joined the Army in February of 1943.  He was born in East Greenwich.

Family members pictured in the group photo:

Linda Powers - niece

Marissa Powers - Great Niece

Peter Anderson - Nephew

Adolph Johnson - Brother in Law

Barbara Anderson - Wife

Margorie Cookson - Sister