WASHINGTON (Army News Service, July 27, 2015) -- In front of nearly 10,000 veterans from World War II through Afghanistan attending the 2015 Veterans of Foreign Wars Convention in Pittsburgh, July 18-22, the VFW honored all Army combat medics with one of its most prestigious annual awards.
The Army medics received the 2015 VFW Armed Forces Award for valor in battle and extraordinary commitment to national security.
Command Sgt. Maj. Gerald Ecker of the Army Medical Command, or MEDCOM, accepted the award on behalf of all combat medics.
"Guys like me and those who are going to do this after me have truly stood on your broad shoulders to maintain the same high standards to continue this art," Ecker said of the commitment Army medics have given since the Revolutionary War. "Our infantry and all combat Soldiers can move out confidently on their mission because, yes, they do know that 'doc' will be there as needed."
MEDCOM personnel focus on saving lives on the battlefield. With constantly improving technology and training, medics in Afghanistan have been saving lives that might have been lost in previous wars, officials said.
"Army medics make hope a reality, a reality that is as real as life. And life is a great course of action in combat," Ecker said.
In attendance at this year's convention was President Barack Obama, who spoke about healthcare, the performance of the VA, civilian and military relations, and American foreign policy and leadership abroad.
"Our nation endures because citizens like you put on the uniform and serve to keep us free," the president said, praising the dedication and service of American veterans. "We endure because the freedoms and values you protected are now defended by a new generation."
The VFW's annual convention includes the opportunity for veterans from all four military branches to interact and network, as well as to attend workshops focused on estate and financial planning, healthcare, leadership and personal development. Memorial services are also held each day in remembrance of fallen comrades.
Celebrating its 116th year, and the return of its annual convention to Pittsburgh, where the organization first convened to discuss veterans' rights, the VFW is more than a million strong.
Related Links:
VFW 2015 Convention Video Highlights
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