Photos: Vietnam Veteran Receives Bronze Star

Vietnam War veteran Ken Richardson received a Bronze Star on Monday at the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 19, post in Berkley, presented by U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Michigan.

The senator apologized to Richardson, and all of the Vietnam War veterans who were present, that recognition for their sacrifices has been so long delayed.

"This medal is a long time in coming," Levin said. "In a way, it's symbolic of the Vietnam War.

"People took out their differences on people who risked their lives for us," he said, adding that he hopes that part of history will never be repeated.

Richardson, who served as an artillery forward observer in Vietnam from October 1967 until May 1968, joked with Levin that the honor was better late than never.

"I will never forget my Vietnam experience and I do not regret it," Richardson said. "It's a great country and I'd do it again."

Richardson, who was honored for meritorious achievement while serving in combat, received a standing ovation during the Fourth of July ceremony.

"I had to control my emotions," he said. "It is very emotional – I think of all my friends."

Richardson said his mission as commander of Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 19, is to "bend over backward" to help other vets.

"One of the high points of today for me is to bring attention to our magnificent facility and what we do for veterans," he said.

The D.A.V. Chapter 19 moved into its new home on Coolidge Highway in March and work on the facility's public spaces was completed over the weekend, Richardson said.

The site will provide veterans with counseling, job training and assistance navigating benefits programs, as well as opportunities to connect socially and professionally. Richardson and veteran advocate Robert Kakos said D.A.V. Chapter 19 also is open to the public.

"I like the mission they have of educating and assisting our veterans because that is what is sorely needed," Berkley Mayor Marilyn Stephan said.

She was joined at the ceremony by Councilman Phil O'Dwyer, as well as state Sen. John Pappageorge, R-Troy.

"It's good that we take a day to remember the sacrifices that many in this room made. It was an honor to be here," said Pappageorge, himself a veteran. "You sense the brotherhood that's present."

That sentiment was reflected in the modest Richardson's speech, in which he singled out friends with whom he served or whose service he wanted to honor. He promised to keep it short, despite waiting more than 40 years to give it, so people could make it to holiday barbecues.

"We thank God for the men and women of this country who put on their uniforms," to make our Fourth of July celebrations possible, Levin said.