CRANSTON, RI – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today held a special ceremony honoring World War II veteran Percy S. Wilson, 95, of Mapleville.  Reed presented Mr. Wilson with the long-delayed military honors he earned during his World War II service.

Mr. Wilson served in the Army with the Headquarters Battery Field Artillery Battalion during the Battles of Normandy and the Rhineland, among others.  He was just 22 years old when he joined the Army in April 1941.

Reed presented Mr. Wilson with the Good Conduct Medal; the American Defense Service Medal; the World War II Victory medal; the American Campaign medal; the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and 1 Silver Service Star; the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII; and the Marksman Badge with Carbine Bar.

“Today we honor Mr. Wilson’s service and commitment to country with a small token of our enduring gratitude and respect,” said Reed, a former Army Ranger and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.  “On behalf of all Rhode Islanders, I thank Percy, his family, and all our veterans for their sacrifices.”

The attention to orders for the medal ceremony noted Mr. Wilson’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. Wilson’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.”

GROUP PHOTO CAPTION: Left to Right (George Fenley (son-in-law), Jeremiah Fenley (Blue Shirt) Grandson,  Marjorie Fenley (Floral Shirt –Blue Flowers) Daughter,  Percy S. Wilson, Charlene Holmes- (Orange Shirt) Daughter, Karen Green (Jean Shirt),  Cory Green (Red Shirt) Great Grandson.