A Pennsylvania centenarian who served and was injured in World War II received a Purple Heart just days short of him turning 101 years old.
Sgt. Harold “Bud” Pressel, of York County, received the award Wednesday at the American Legion in Dallastown 80 years after he was injured in the war, WGAL reported.
“As the commander of 15th Air Force, it is my tremendous honor to be here for the unique opportunity to correct a long-standing oversight,” Maj. Gen. David Lyons, Commander of the 15th Air Force in South Carolina, said while presenting the award.
“Never thought this would happen,” Pressel told the outlet.
A fire had erased his military documents, which played a role in delaying his honor. The military approved the honor after friends of Pressel pushed for it. (RELATED: Last Remaining Sailor Of USS Arizona Dies At 102)
“I’m about three-quarters choked up to see all…
