Wasserman Schultz Lauds Medal of Honor Award for Two South FL Veterans

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) applauded President Obama’s posthumous decoration of two South Florida Veterans today with the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award. In all, 24 service members were honored at the White House ceremony, including 19 Hispanic, African American, or Jewish Veterans.

Private First Class Leonard Kravitz and Private Miguel Vera both served in the Korean War, and were both constituents who hailed from Florida’s 23rd Congressional district, represented by Rep. Wasserman Schultz.

“Through their service to country and their unique backgrounds, both Privates Kravitz and Vera reflected the strength, diversity, and tenacity that make South Florida such a dynamic place,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “Like too many of their brothers and sisters, they served at a time when institutional discrimination prevented them from being fully recognized for their valiant service. I hope that their family members take comfort in this award, which is a testament to their character and resilience.”

Bestowed upon military personnel whose personal acts of valor are determined to have gone above and beyond the call of duty, the President of the United States presents the Medal of Honor in the name of Congress.

“Minorities have served in U.S. military engagements dating back to the American Revolution, but for too long many of their acts of heroism have not been properly recognized. I thank Presidents Bush and Obama for their efforts to undo this historic oversight,” continued Rep. Wasserman Schultz.u