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Vet Gets Bronze Star After Almost 40 Years

Emotional day for Virginia man who receives missing Bronze Star

By John Schriffen

| Friday, Mar 12, 2010 | Updated 9:00 PM EST

Vet Gets Bronze Star After Almost 40 Years

NBCWashington.com

After years of calls and letters to the Army, 69-year-old Phillip O’Donnell now proudly has his Bronze Star pinned to his chest. But it wasn't until U.S. Sen. Jim Webb got involved in January that this day was possible.

"He was actually awarded this award more than 30 years ago, and it simply got lost in the administrative system,” Webb said. “So we’re doing our part to see he gets proper recognition for the service that he gave."

O’Donnell, who also served 10 years as a Marine, was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in the army as a helicopter pilot. During the Vietnam War, it was his job to push back enemy troops and provide ammo and medical supplies to allied troops on the ground. O’Donnell said looking back on some of his missions, he was terrified but pushed through because he had a duty to his country.

"You get involved in the mission and you get involved in the job,” said O’Donnell. “If I’m thinking I’m only 6 feet off the ground and people are shooting at me, I’m going to get out of there. Then later you think about, 'Wow, that was a little bit too weary.'"

Even though it has taken almost 40 years to receive his award, O’Donnell harbors no ill feelings toward the Army. He said all Americans should support the young men and women currently serving overseas.

“They’re doing a hell of a job, and I’m very proud of them,” said O’Donnell. “I just wish there was any way that I could be there also.”