A Kentucky World War II veteran has been awarded a Purple Heart after an 81-year wait. Glenn Fisher, who fought in Nazi Germany, received the honor in a ceremony held at Louisville’s Frazier History Museum.
Fisher expressed his excitement by saying, “I’ve been so excited, I haven’t been able to sleep at night thinking about what a wonderful thing is happening.” The accolade comes just months before his 100th birthday and concludes years of efforts to formally recognize his wartime injuries.
Efforts to Secure Recognition
According to WHAS11, Fisher enlisted in the Army in 1943 when he was 16 years old, with his parents’ approval. During the war, he landed on Utah Beach in France and was wounded while waiting to cross the Rhine River in 1945 when German artillery attacked his unit.
Fisher stated that his injuries were not properly documented during the war, which contributed to the prolonged delay in receiving the Purple Heart. Despite repeated attempts, previous efforts to obtain the medal proved unsuccessful due to a lack of documented evidence.
Persistent Advocacy
However, Fisher did not give up. With the help of his longtime friend Jeff Thoke, who researched and gathered extensive historical records about Fisher’s military service, he continued to pursue recognition. “He represents the best of America,” Thoke remarked. “We can’t thank him enough for all that he has done. He loves his country; he’s one of the most patriotic men.”
Fisher served in the Army’s 556th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Weapons Battalion and participated in the Battle of the Bulge before being wounded near the Rhine River during the closing months of World War II.
A Historic Recognition
Fisher’s journey culminated in the ceremony at the museum, marking the end of his decades-long pursuit. As his service history indicates, Fisher returned to his unit weeks after being wounded, ultimately meeting Soviet forces at the Elbe River before Victory in Europe Day. He also served as part of the official escort for President Harry S. Truman when Truman arrived in Antwerp, Belgium.
The recognition finally grants Fisher the honor he sought for so long. “It’s really true,” Fisher reflected on receiving the award.
Fox News Digital is seeking additional information from the U.S. Army regarding Fisher’s Purple Heart.
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