WASHINGTON — A Lincoln County native received a Purple Heart medal more than 70 years after serving during the December 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.
According to a statement from U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin’s office, Wetzel “Sundown” Sanders, of Midkiff, was assisting in repelling the Japanese attack when he was struck in the right knee with shrapnel.
Sanders, 94, told the Democratic senator about his military experience, which also included serving in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. He also authorized Manchin’s office to help in efforts in seeking a Purple Heart.
“Helping Wetzel secure this long-overdue Purple Heart is one of my greatest honors as a U.S. Senator,” Manchin said in a statement. “Wetzel’s service speaks for itself. It is because of brave men and women like Wetzel that we remain a safe, strong and secure nation. I thank Wetzel for his service and speak for all West Virginians when I say he makes me proud to be a Mountaineer.”
The Purple Heart is reserved for soldiers wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. military.
I just spoke with Pearl Harbor survivor Wetzel Sanders to tell him my office has helped secure the Purple Heart he rightfully earned! #WV pic.twitter.com/N38w5HnBFb
— Senator Joe Manchin (@Sen_JoeManchin) September 5, 2017