PEOPLE: JACKSON VETERAN'S VALOR RECOGNIZED

JACKSON, Mo. -- Vern Sebastian of Jackson has already been awarded a Bronze star and two Purple Heart medals for his bravery during World War II, but now he's been recognized by a local veterans group for his service.

Sebastian was awarded a place on the Wall of Valor at a Poplar Bluff, Mo., veterans hospital during a ceremony last week. His photograph and a description of his service will be posted on the wall at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.

The Veteran Service Organization commanders and service officers of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas make the selections. Seven people were honored during a recent ceremony at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

Sebastian served in the U.S. Army infantry division in the South Pacific from 1942 to 1945.

During that time, his unit was engaged in battles near Luzon, Philippines. A comrade was injured and Sebastian crawled through heavy machine gun fire to rescue him. He then returned to retrieve the fallen soldier's flame thrower and resumed firing at the Japanese. He was later wounded.

Sebastian also received a copy of the photograph and award that will be displayed.

Another area man was recently honored by the Illinois National Guard for his courage.

Timothy Cain of Perryville, Mo., was awarded a Military Medal of Valor, the highest honor a person can receive during times of peace.

Cain was recognized for his valor and courage when he attempted to save the occupants in a burning vehicle last year in a traffic accident near St. Louis.