Local soldier awarded Purple Heart, 52 years after death in Vietnam War
A day after he would have turned 77, a local man who made the ultimate sacrifice as a young man in the Vietnam War was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart.
Private First-Class John Hargrave was killed on April 1, 1967, at 24 years old. His brother, Robert Hargrave, accepted the medal on his behalf from U.S. Rep. John Joyce on Monday in the congressman's Chambersburg office, according to a news release.
“It was my honor to present Private First-Class Hargrave a Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice during the Vietnam War," said Joyce, R-Hollidaysburg. “The Purple Heart is one of our nation’s prestigious honors to recognize the sacrifices that our veterans make for us every day. PCF Hargrave, and all veterans who serve our nation, have my ultimate gratitude.”
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Several members of Hargrave's family attended the presentation.
“Yesterday would have been my brother’s 77th birthday,” said Robert Hargrave. “My family members and I are thrilled that he was able to receive this honor.”
Gary Lesher, senior vice commander at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1599 also presented a flag to honor PFC Hargrave. Several members of Post 1599 were in attendance.
The Purple Heart is awarded to military personnel wounded or killed by enemy forces.