A Kentucky World War II veteran who was injured while fighting Nazi Germany has been officially recognized with one of the nation’s most significant military honors after waiting over eight decades. Glenn Fisher, now 99 years old, received his Purple Heart during a gathering at Louisville’s Frazier History Museum.
Fisher, who turned 16 in 1943 when he enlisted in the Army with parental consent, recalled feeling excited about finally receiving the honor. “Sometimes I’d wake up and say, ‘now, is this really true?’ And it is, it’s really true,” he shared during the event.
The Purple Heart is given to US military members who are wounded or killed by enemy forces. Fisher’s award arrives just before his 100th birthday, after numerous unsuccessful attempts to have his wartime injuries recorded and recognized. His story first received attention when WHAS11 reported in March about his goal to obtain the award before his centennial birthday.
Fisher’s military service began at a young age. He landed on Utah Beach in France and was injured on March 25, 1945, by German artillery while preparing to cross the Rhine River. Initially, he explained, his injuries went undocumented, which delayed his award.
After multiple attempts and setbacks, Fisher persisted with the aid of his friend Jeff Thoke. Thoke dedicated years to gathering documentation about Fisher’s service, resulting in hundreds of pages of historical records being submitted to military officials.
“He represents the best of America,” said Thoke during the ceremony. “We can’t thank him enough for all that he has done. He loves his country; he’s one of the most patriotic men.”
Fisher served in the Army’s 556th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Weapons Battalion. He valiantly fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was wounded near the Rhine River in the war’s final stages. Remarkably, after his recovery, he rejoined his unit, interfaced with Soviet troops at the Elbe River just one day before Victory in Europe Day, and served as an official escort for President Harry S. Truman in Antwerp, Belgium, before finally returning stateside.
Fox News Digital has sought additional details from the US Army regarding Fisher’s award but has not received further information. Jasmine Baehr, a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital, covers a variety of topics including politics, military affairs, legal debates, faith, and culture.
Delta Flight Encounters Firework in Chicago Sky During July 4th Celebrations 
Fourth of July Celebrations Marred by Violence Across the U.S. 
NYC Officials Warn of Flash Flooding Amid Severe Weather Risk 
Expansion of the Willow Fire Prompts New Evacuation Orders in Colorado 
Severe Storms Leave 800,000 Without Power Across U.S. 
Mexico-England World Cup Match Stirs Security Concerns