Former Soldier receives overdue Purple Heart from congresswoman

By Staff Sgt. Grant Matthes, 1st Brigade Combat Team PAO NCOICApril 14, 2016

Former Soldier receives overdue Purple Heart from congresswoman
U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (NY-21) presents a Purple Heart Medal to Jason Mauldin at the American Legion in Massena on April 5. Mauldin, a former artilleryman with 3-6 Field Artillery, received the medal for injuries he suffered from an impro... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT DRUM, N.Y. (April 14, 2016) -- A former member of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (LI), was awarded a Purple Heart Medal by U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (NY-21) during a ceremony April 5 at the American Legion in Massena.

Sgt. Jason Mauldin, a member of C Battery, 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 when he was wounded by an improvised explosive device while on a night convoy patrol.

He was medically discharged from the Army in February 2011 due to injuries he suffered from the explosion.

"I want to thank everyone for being here on this momentous occasion as we seek to honor Sgt. Jason Mauldin for his bravery, service and sacrifice to our nation," Stefanik said.

"This is truly a testament to the incredible service and sacrifices the men and women of the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum have made for our nation," she added. "Our guest of honor today, Sgt. Jason Mauldin, has certainly demonstrated his bravery serving on the front lines in Afghanistan to defend our nation from those who wish to do us harm."

Among those in attendance were Command Sgt. Maj. Mark D. Belda, 10th Mountain Division (LI) acting senior enlisted adviser, and Command Sgt. Maj. William A. Covey, 3-6 FA senior enlisted adviser, along with members of veteran support groups who wished to express their thanks to Mauldin for his service.

Covey opened his remarks by explaining the history of the Purple Heart.

"The Purple Heart is described as available to all, but desired by none," he said. "It's an American decoration and the oldest American award still present in use. The Purple Heart is specifically a combat decoration. It's not something you can ask for -- it's something that has to be earned."

Although Mauldin was authorized the award, he never actually received it. Then his wife Sheena reached out to the congresswoman's office to track down his award.

"A baptism is an outward expression of your faith; well, this medal is an outward expression and physical cantonment recognizing your sacrifice," Covey added. "On behalf of myself, Lt. Col. Bernard House, (3-6 FA commander), and the rest of the guys of 3-6 Field Artillery, thank you."

As Stefanik presented the award, a look of happiness came over Mauldin's face.

"I am truly honored and humbled that my office was able to play a part in recovering this well-deserved honor and recognition for you," Stefanik said. "On behalf of a grateful nation (and) a grateful community, I want to present you with this Purple Heart. Thank you so much for your bravery and service, and thank you to your Family."

Related Links:

Army.mil: News

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