Beachwood World War II veteran to receive Purple Heart after years of waiting

BEACHWOOD, Ohio - Private First Class Donald Arnold, a World War II veteran, will receive a Purple Heart after years of trying to obtain the honor.

Arnold, now living in an assisted living facility in Beachwood, will also receive eight other replacement medals including the Silver Star and Bronze Star.

According to a news release, Senator Sherrod Brown worked with the National Personnel Records Center to secure the medals.

"As a member of the 'Greatest Generation,' Private Arnold-along with thousands of veterans in Ohio-made invaluable contributions to our fight for worldwide peace and democracy," Brown said.

"Today and every day, we must remember to express our gratitude to the men and women that have served our country in uniform. As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job is fighting for Ohio's veterans by ensuring that they receive the benefits and recognition they so richly deserve."

PFC Arnold was drafted into the Army in 1943. He became trained as a combat medic and was sent to France as part of the 97th Infantry Division.

On April 14, 1945, his unit was under attack. While bandaging an injured man, PFC Arnold was wounded by enemy artillery fire.

PFC Arnold was discharged the following year.

Senator Brown will present the medals to PFC Arnold during a ceremony Monday morning at 10:30 a.m. at Wiggins Place Assisted Living Facility on Cedar Road in Beachwood.