Sparks Vietnam veteran gets Purple Heart after nearly 60 years

SPARKS, Nev. (KOLO) – A Vietnam veteran in Sparks has been awarded the Purple Heart after nearly 60 years.

Former Army Staff Sergeant Thomas Martin was given the Purple Heart during a ceremony at the Nevada Veterans Memorial Plaza on Friday.

Martin was injured by a punji stake in September 1967 while conducting a helicopter assault during combat operations in Vietnam.

Martin waited nearly six decades to get his award due to administrative problems.

Martin contacted the office of Senator Jacky Rosen for assistance getting the award, who pushed for the U.S. Army to give the award to Martin.

“Staff Sergeant Thomas Martin bravely and courageously served our nation during the Vietnam War, and he was injured while fighting to protect our freedoms. Unfortunately, decades of delays prevented Staff Sergeant Martin from receiving the Purple Heart and properly recognizing his bravery and sacrifice during his time in uniform,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m so proud that my team and I were able to help him finally secure the Purple Heart he earned through his service to our nation. Assisting Nevadans with issues like this is one of the most important parts of my job as a United States Senator for Nevada. My team and I are always ready to help any Nevada veteran who needs assistance dealing with issues in the federal government or navigating federal agencies.”