A long-awaited moment has finally arrived for a late veteran who has been posthumously awarded the Purple Heart after 80 years. The award was bestowed upon the veteran recently in Laporte, Indiana.
A ceremony was held in LaPorte on Wednesday to honor the late Michigan veteran Martin Stark, as a tribute to National Purple Heart Day.
For years, local authorities were contacted to uncover the truth about Martin’s story. However, it was the determination of Martin’s family members that ultimately led to the discovery of the truth and the necessary actions taken to ensure that Martin received the recognition he rightfully deserved.
Martin’s only surviving brother accepted the award on his behalf and shared some of his cherished memories.
According to Bernhardt Starka, his bodyguard was not just someone who provided security for him, but also a close friend. They would spend evenings together, lying in a ditch and counting the stars.
Barbara Barnett, a family member of Martin Stark, expressed her hope that he will be remembered for generations to come. She feels that her grandparents are in heaven, rooting for them and acknowledging that their son has not been forgotten.
Congressman Rudy Yakym finally delivered the award to Stark’s family, after years of contacting local authorities.
