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Congressman Chris Collins (right) and Mary Pat Hancock, chairwoman of the Genesee County Legislature (left), stand with members of the Chase family.
Congressman Chris Collins (right) and Mary Pat Hancock, chairwoman of the Genesee County Legislature (left), stand with members of the Chase family.

Congressman Chris Collins honors late WWII veteran John Chase

by jmaloni

Press release

Tue, May 28th 2013 08:55 am

Congressman Chris Collins honored the late John Chase, a WWII veteran from Batavia, by presenting his family members with the medals he earned in service.

"Today, I am proud to pay tribute to John Chase, a man who fought for and defended the freedom of our county so bravely during World War II," Collins said Saturday. "I am humbled to present his family with the medals he earned during his time in the Army and want to thank him posthumously for his distinguished service."

Alongside members of the late Chase's family and Chairwoman of the Genesee County Legislature Mary Pat Hancock, Collins shared how Chase was drafted into the Army, fought in the battle of Rhineland in 1945, and received a Silver Star for his actions.

As Chase grew increasingly ill, his family reached out to Collins' office and asked for help in securing a new medal. In the process, Collins' office discovered Chase also qualified for a Bronze Star, which he had never received.

"I am very proud of the sacrifice my father made to fight for his country. Replacing my father's Silver Star and finding out that he qualified for a Bronze Star has meant a great deal to our family," said Chase's son, David. "I thank Congressman Collins for helping secure the medals my father earned and for giving us the opportunity to honor his service."

Collins honored Chase on Wednesday by sharing his story on the floor of the House of Representatives, and thanked all of this nation's veterans for their service.

If you or a family member needs help securing medals for military service, contact Collins' office at 716-634-2324 or visit his website at www.chriscollins.house.gov.

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