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Columbus Vietnam War Veteran Receives Bronze Star Medal

Sergeant Michael Javorina of Columbus is one of thousands across our nation being honored on this Veteran's Day.

Just like every brick has a different veteran's name at the Grounds of Remembrance in Dublin, every Medal of Honor has a unique story too.

Sergeant Michael Javorina of Columbus is one of thousands across our nation being honored on this Veteran's Day.

Wednesday morning in Dublin, U.S. Senator Rob Portman presented him with the Bronze Star Medal, among others for his heroic service in the Vietnam War more than 40 years ago.

"Regardless how you feel about the Vietnam War or for that matter any conflict, all of us should be united and understanding these are men and women that are put their lives on the line for us and they're serving us and we should honor their service. That's what today was about," Sen. Portman said.

Portman was joined by members of the VFW Post 10691 and American Legion Post 800 in Veterans Park. The Sells Middle School band also performed patriotic songs.

The overall message was not to mark this day each year as a celebration of victory, but rather as a celebration of those who advanced America's commitment to freedom and made victory possible.

Sgt. Javorina's family stood behind him, just as they did all those years ago when he was in Vietnam.

"It's amazing, I wish our mom was here to see it," Javorina’s sister Toni Gift said. "We really, truly didn't ever think this day would come."

After receiving today's honor, Sargent Javorina said he couldn’t believe it.

"I'm glad they're finally giving veterans their just rewards,” he said. “They didn't treat us very well when we came back. Now everyone wants to welcome veterans and I'm happy for them."

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