Vietnam veteran will receive medals 46 years after his service

SIKESTON, Mo. — After nearly a half-century, a clerical error was corrected, and a Sikeston resident will receive his military honors.

Ivory L. Wright will be presented with Vietnam War service medals he was awarded but didn’t receive because of a clerical error.

Wright will receive the medals and certificates at a 3 p.m. ceremony Wednesday at the National Guard Armory, 300 S. Main St. in Sikeston. Presenting the medals will be Larry D. Kay, executive director of the Missouri Veterans Commission.

Pfc. Wright enlisted in the Army in June 1969. During his tour of duty in Vietnam, he served with the 2nd Transportation Company; 1st Administration Company, 1st Infantry Division; 1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division; and U.S. Army Depot, Vietnam. Wright was discharged from active duty September 1970.

Because of the clerical error, Wright did not receive these awards: Bronze Star Medal with V device, Presidential Meritorious Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.

“America has always answered the call of freedom and liberty. Mr. Wright’s valor and bravery are deserving of these awards, and it is an honor to present them,” Kay said.

The Missouri Veterans Commission, a state agency, operates seven state veterans homes, five state veterans cemeteries and the Veterans Services Program.