Monroe County commissioners recently recognized the county’s Veterans Affairs Office.

In addition to honoring the director, Lisa Kaye, for 15 years of service in the office, the certificate also honored all of the staff and the work they do to help veterans.

Commissioner Sharon Laverdure said the Veterans Affairs Office was instrumental in helping a local veteran receive medals in connection to his deployment during the Vietnam War. The veteran, who now lives in Reeders, received assistance from Eric Morin, the deputy director.

“Eric took the leadership role in trying to figure out what was going wrong. And in the whole process, they found out that this gentleman deserved a Purple Heart,” Laverdure said. “Eric helped do research to fill in the gaps.”

During the war 56 years ago, Pfc. Thomas Barnes was shot during combat at just 19 years of age. He had saved many records, but they were incomplete, Laverdure said.

“He has gone through a lot over these years,” she said. “There are many people that really fought hard in the wars. But when you’re shot and then you have forever kinds of injuries that last, the Purple Heart really does help make a difference.”

Morin had reached out to the office of U.S. Rep. Robert Bresnahan Jr. for help with the case. As a result, the congressman’s office was able to located a total of six military decorations earned by Barnes. These include:

• Purple Heart Medal.

• Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device.

• Good Conduct Medal.

• National Defense Service Medal.

• Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.

• Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device.

Bresnahan said in a press release: “Ensuring that veterans receive the recognition they have earned is one of the most meaningful responsibilities of this office. It was an honor to help correct this oversight and properly recognize Mr. Barnes for his service and sacrifice to our nation.”

According to the press release, Barnes was an Army Ranger with Company L, 75th Infantry, attached to the 101st Airborne Division. On June 5, 1970, Barnes and his patrol came under enemy fire. He was seriously wounded, but continued to return fire, which helped “his fellow soldiers establish a defensive perimeter and reduce further casualties.”

In addition to the work the office did for Barnes, Commissioner David Parker added that they help many veterans with issues from property taxes to the paperwork associated with medical issues related to Agent Orange.

“I just wanted to thank Lisa, Eric and the staff at the Veterans Affairs Office for all you do for our veterans,” Parker said.

Kaye was on hand to receive the certificate. Morin was absent, because he had an appointment to help another veteran.

Parker read the certificate, which stated it is “for outstanding dedication in serving the veterans of Monroe County. Your unwavering commitment, compassionate support, and tireless advocacy make a lasting impact on the lives of those who have honorably served our nation. Thank you for the work you do.”

A representative from Bresnahan’s office also was on hand at the meeting and presented the Veterans Affairs Office with a certificate of special congressional recognition for 15 years of dedicated service to the veterans in Monroe County.

Kaye thanked everyone for the certificates and said they appreciate the recognition.