Riverhead vet receives Purple Heart recognition
The award comes 50 years after his service.
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After 50 years, a local hero is finally receiving the recognition he deserves.
Riverhead native Daniel Knote was awarded the prestigious Purple Heart Friday in Rocky Point in honor of his service in the Vietnam War.
According to military records, the U.S. army specialist was injured after he tried to save a fellow soldier in 1968. The Purple Heart was supposed to be granted to Knote months after the injury, but the declaration was never properly noted in his service record.
A special ceremony was held at the Rocky Point VFW, where Congressman and Vietnam War veteran Nick LaLota presented the award to Knote.
Knote was also overcome with emotion after receiving the special accolades.
"I get emotional not only on this but on family stuff,” he said. “I gotta always get a paper towel. I was amazed. I didn't expect to see all of these people."
Aug. 7 is recognized as National Purple Heart Day.
