VICENZA, Italy - Members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Mediterranean Post 8862, located in Vicenza, Italy, traveled to a small town in northwest Italy July 25, 2013, to be present at a once-in-a-lifetime ceremony.
They gathered to witness the presentation of the French National Order of the Legion of Honor Medal to retired U.S. Army Col. Myron Murley.
The award is the highest honor of its kind bestowed in recognition of service to France and was presented to Murley in recognition of his actions and participation in the liberation of the country during World War II.
Friends, family and members of VFW Post 8862 attended the small, informal and honorable ceremony.
The Legion of Honor Medal was presented by fellow awardee, French Lt. Col. Gerard Castelli. "It was a great honor to present this to someone like Col. Murley," said Castelli.
Murley has been a member of the VFW for many years and was instrumental in the founding of VFW Post 8862 in the Vicenza Military Community in 1992.
Emotions flowed freely as participants congratulated "Iron Mike" on his recognition, and enjoyed a peaceful lunch together in a spirit of great fellowship.
It was a great and noble event that recognized one of many great Americans who was part of a military conflict that affected many countries and generations. Murley is one of their number, and at age 90, remains a Soldier's Soldier.
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