Richardson gives long-lost soldier's kin Purple Heart
by Rick Pearson
During an informal ceremony at an American Legion post in Des Moines today, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson presented to the survivors of a Korean War veteran a posthumously awarded Purple Heart that the government promised nearly 54 years ago but failed to deliver.
ÒI am deeply honored to present this medal to the family of Cpl. Clem Boody and to recognize his contribution and sacrifice for our country,Ó the Democratic presidential candidate said in a statement as he discussed his plans for health care, education and tax cuts for military veterans. ÒIÕd also like to recognize the sacrifice of this family, like all POW/MIA families, who have held on to hope for so many years.Ó
BoodyÕs remains were among those of six American soldiers that North Korean military leaders turned over to Richardson and former Veterans Affairs Secy. Anthony Principi during a visit to North Korea in April. In September, BoodyÕs remains were identified by the U.S. military using DNA testing, ending a quest by BoodyÕs niece, Stacey Brewer of Toledo, Iowa, to keep her fatherÕs promise and find an uncle she had never known.
ÒI am so touched by his effort in fighting to see that Clem finally received the medal he so rightly deserved,Ó Brewer said of Richardson.
Brewer had previously met with Richardson to thank him for repatriating the remains and her uncleÕs identity had been confirmed. At the time, she asked Richardson, who has stressed his diplomatic and government experience in the campaign, if he could help obtain the Purple Heart that then-Army Secretary Robert Stevens promised to her grandmother, Dessie Boody, on Jan. 4, 1954.
ÒIt is an honor to issue this symbol in recognition of Cpl. BoodyÕs faithful and dedicated service, and the supreme sacrifice he made for his country in Korea,Ó Pete Geren, the current Army secretary, wrote in a letter to Richardson that contained the medal.
Boody, a member of Headquarters Company, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, was listed as missing in action while fighting near Unsan, North Korea, on Nov. 2, 1950, and was presumed dead on Dec. 31, 1953.
The Tribune previously wrote about RichardsonÕs efforts on behalf of Stacey Brewer.
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