Untitled Document

WW II veteran receives medals earned more than 55 years ago
English: Lesniewski served with honor and valor
WASHINGTON, May 12, 2001 –

Joseph Lesniewski had his military service during World War II storied in a book and even targeted for an HBO series, but he had never received the medals he earned from the U.S. Army – until Saturday.

U.S. Rep. Phil English, along with Major Gen. Michael Dunlavey, presented Lesniewski with various awards Saturday at the Erie World War II Memorial.

“Joe’s honors are long overdue,” English said. “He served our country with dignity and valor. I am privileged to be here today as Joe receives the medals that are so long in coming.”

The Erie man served as a member of the Easy Company, 506th Regiment of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division during the European campaign of World War II. During his three years of service, he was a part of the Normandy invasion and was wounded twice in action.

Lesniewski was presented medals including the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Combat Parachutists Badge with two stars, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart with an oak leaf cluster (multiple wounds), the U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal, the European Campaign Medal with four stars and the invasion arrow, the American Campaign Medal, the Medal of Occupation with Germany clasp, the World War II Victory Medal, the Netherlands Orange Lanyard, the Belgian Fourragerrie and the World War II lapel pin.

“Joe risked his life for our country, fighting so that we all may enjoy the freedoms that we do,” English said. “It is important he receives all of the honors that he deserves.”

Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks have produced an epic 10-part World War II mini-series in association with HBO chronicling the story of Lesniewski and his company. Band Of Brothers is a true story adapted from the best selling book by Stephen Ambrose.

Band of Brothers begins with their rigorous training in Georgia, follows them as they parachute into France behind enemy lines early on D-day morning, and climaxes with their daring capture of Hitler's fortified mountain chalet, the Eagle's Nest retreat at Berchtesgaden, Bavaria.

“Both Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg are known for their talents in bringing to life historical events on the big screen,” English said. “While ‘Saving Private Ryan’ used fictional characters to illustrate World War II, I am pleased that the remarkable true life stories of brave men like Joe are at last being told.”

Lesniewski leaves June 1 to join other E-company veterans on a return trip to Normandy where they will participate in a various events including a ceremony at the Utah Beach Memorial and watch the premiere of the series.

“We must not forget what people like Joe have done for this country,” English said. “Joe risked his life fighting on foreign soil for the greater good. I am very pleased we were able to ensure he receives all of the accolades he earned.”


	U.S. REP. PHIL ENGLISH 1410 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 www.house.gov/en
WW II veteran receives medals earned more than 55 years ago English: Lesniewski served with honor and valor WASHINGTON, May 12, 2001 – Joseph Lesniewski had his military service during World War II storied in a book and even targeted for an HBO series, but he had never received the medals he earned from the U.S. Army – until Saturday. U.S. Rep. Phil English, along with Major Gen. Michael Dunlavey, presented Lesniewski with various awards Saturday at the Erie World War II Memorial. “Joe’s honors are long overdue,” English said. “He served our country with dignity and valor. I am privileged to be here today as Joe receives the medals that are so long in coming.” The Erie man served as a member of the Easy Company, 506th Regiment of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division during the European campaign of World War II. During his three years of service, he was a part of the Normandy invasion and was wounded twice in action. Lesniewski was presented medals including the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Combat Parachutists Badge with two stars, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart with an oak leaf cluster (multiple wounds), the U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal, the European Campaign Medal with four stars and the invasion arrow, the American Campaign Medal, the Medal of Occupation with Germany clasp, the World War II Victory Medal, the Netherlands Orange Lanyard, the Belgian Fourragerrie and the World War II lapel pin. “Joe risked his life for our country, fighting so that we all may enjoy the freedoms that we do,” English said. “It is important he receives all of the honors that he deserves.” Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks have produced an epic 10-part World War II mini-series in association with HBO chronicling the story of Lesniewski and his company. Band Of Brothers is a true story adapted from the best selling book by Stephen Ambrose. Band of Brothers begins with their rigorous training in Georgia, follows them as they parachute into France behind enemy lines early on D-day morning, and climaxes with their daring capture of Hitler's fortified mountain chalet, the Eagle's Nest retreat at Berchtesgaden, Bavaria. “Both Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg are known for their talents in bringing to life historical events on the big screen,” English said. “While ‘Saving Private Ryan’ used fictional characters to illustrate World War II, I am pleased that the remarkable true life stories of brave men like Joe are at last being told.” Lesniewski leaves June 1 to join other E-company veterans on a return trip to Normandy where they will participate in a various events including a ceremony at the Utah Beach Memorial and watch the premiere of the series. “We must not forget what people like Joe have done for this country,” English said. “Joe risked his life fighting on foreign soil for the greater good. I am very pleased we were able to ensure he receives all of the accolades he earned.” use browser arrow to return