Rep. Gillen Presents Recovered National Defense Service Medal to Nassau County Veteran’s Family

GARDEN CITY, NY - Yesterday, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) presented Robert Schildkraut with the National Defense Service Medal that his late father, Marvin Schildkraut, earned in recognition of his honorable service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Following Marvin's passing, the medal was lost, leaving a meaningful piece of the family's history missing. The National Defense Service Medal was awarded to Marvin Schildkraut upon his honorable discharge in June 1955.

"Our veterans make extraordinary sacrifices in service to our nation and their legacy deserves to be honored," said Rep. Gillen. "It was a privilege to help reunite Robert Schildkraut with his late father's National Defense Service Medal which he earned for his bravery and exceptional service during the Korean War. We owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who has worn the uniform and it is my honor to help our veterans and their families receive the recognition they have earned."

"My father, Marvin, received the National Defense Medal for honorable service, given by the Commanding Officer at Camp Gordon, Georgia. For our family, the medal represents recognition, not only for his military service, but for the 50 plus years of design work he performed for multiple Long Island avionics and defense contractors," said Robert Schildkraut, son of Marvin Schildkraut.

When Robert reached out for assistance, Rep. Gillen's office immediately worked with him to navigate the National Archives and Records Administration and recover the medal.

The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during periods of national emergency or armed conflict, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism.

Rep. Gillen's office is committed to helping residents of New York's Fourth congressional district navigate federal agencies and access the benefits and services they are owed. Contact Rep. Gillen's office for assistance with veterans' benefits, replacing or obtaining lost military service medals, Social Security, immigration matters, IRS issues or other issues with federal agencies.

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