Taxing Long Island
News12 New York
Download the App
Where to Watch
Local
Crime
Weather
beWell
The East End
Crime Files
Stony Brook Medicine
LIRR Strike?

Vietnam veteran from Long Island receives long overdue Purple Heart

The 77-year old was wounded in Vietnam back in the '60s. For years, he was unable to receive his medal because of red tape and lack of documentation.

Carmen Grant

May 20, 2024, 8:22 PM

Updated

Share:

More Stories

A Vietnam veteran from Suffolk County was awarded the Purple Heart after waiting decades for the military decoration.

"It's a long time coming. I feel at peace now that I finally got something. I also got a ceremony today when I had no ceremony before," says Robert Terrell, of Selden.

The 77-year old was wounded in Vietnam back in the '60s. For years, he was unable to receive his medal because of red tape and lack of documentation.

With the help from U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota's office, the Long Island veteran was finally awarded his Purple Heart medal. "It was 57years overdue. I am proud to present this honor to him," said the congressman. Terrell was also given a congressional American flag for his military service.

More Stories

Top Stories

App StoreGoogle Play Store

info

Newsletter

Send Photos/Videos

Contact

About Us

News Team

News 12 New York

follow us

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram

more resources

Optimum Corporate

Optimum Service

Advertise on News 12

Careers

Content Removal Policy

© 2026 N12N, LLC

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Ad Choices