World War II vets must apply for state honors by Jan. 1

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- World War II veterans only have through Jan. 1 to apply for state medallions, medals and certificates honoring their service.

To be eligible, a veteran must be living, a Missouri resident and have served in the U.S. military, either at home or abroad, between Dec. 7, 1941, and Sept. 30, 1945. They also must have been honorably discharged.

"It is very important that we reach as many veterans as possible in these last weeks," Gov. Bob Holden said. "The veterans have earned the awards, and we are proud to help implement this program."

According to a National Guard representative, approximately 25,000 veterans have either already received their awards or have submitted applications that are still pending. Approximately 127,000 Missouri veterans are eligible for the program.

Also, veterans of the June 6, 1944, invasion of Normandy can apply for replicas of the Jubilee of Liberty medals issued by France in 1994 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of D-Day.

Applications can be found on the National Guard's Web site at www.moguard.com, by calling toll free at 1 (866) 834-3431 or writing Office of the Adjutant General, Attn: WW II Veterans Recognition Program, P.O. Box 1808, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

Information needed for the application form are address, serial number, branch of service, rank, unit, dates of service and date landed in Normandy, if applicable. Veterans will also need to submit a copy of their discharge papers or Department of Defense Form 214 as military service documentation.