Seeing our veterans receive recognition gives me that proud-to-be-an-American feeling that completely lifts my spirits.

Vietnam vet Rick Ketterling is finally getting recognition for his service to this country and I will be happy to be at the Yellowstone Courthouse tomorrow to applaud him as he receives the Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with One Bronze Star and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Citation with Palm Device.

Ret. Cpl. Ketterling was assigned to B Battery, 2nd Battalion of the 94th Artillery Regiment during the Vietnam War. In February of 1971, Ketterling was severely burned and sustained other injuries due to a manufacturing defect in the 175 millimeter Howitzer that he was firing. After firing 95 rounds the weapon exploded, injuring Ketterling and killing a fellow soldier.

Ketterling still carries the scars he earned serving our nation's military. If you are able to attend the ceremony, please come to help give this hero a round of applause. The medals will be presented by U.S. Sen. Steve Daines at the Yellowstone County Courthouse Thursday, Aug. 13 at 3 p.m.

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