Congressman Sam Johnson (R-TX) presents Vietnam veteran and hometown hero, Lance Corporal Michael P. Carey from Collin County with the Bronze Star Medal with Valor during the annual McKinney Veterans Day event.
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Congressman Sam Johnson presents
Bronze Star Medal to Michael Care |
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McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller,
Congressman Sam Johnson, and
Bronze Star Medal recipient Michael Carey |
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“Michael Carey is the definition of an American patriot. Serving as a Rifleman in the 1st Marine Division during Vietnam, he never failed to uphold the highest traditions of the Marine Corp, to place service over self,” said Johnson as he presented Michael with the Bronze Star Medal with Valor.
While patrolling, south of Danang, on March 26, 1970, Carey tripped an enemy surprise firing device and without hesitation or concern for his own safety, he alerted the patrol to take cover, saving his fellow Marines from deadly shrapnel. Again in September, he maneuvered his squad during combat with the North Vietnamese Army Battalion to direct fire on hostile targets, helping force the enemy into retreat.
“In both instances, the Marine Corp Motto, ‘Semper Fidelis’ meaning ‘Always Faithful’ couldn’t define Carey better. Because of his undaunted courage, bold leadership, and dedication to duty, he honored himself, his battalion, and his country. Michael Carey is beloved by his family, friends, and neighbors and his courage and sacrifice leaves a legacy to be remembered,” concluded Johnson.
Many times, Veterans of all eras are unaware that they may be eligible for the honors they earned. Johnson’s office helps veterans or their family members initiate a request and navigate through the bureaucracy to obtain the official documents required to prove medal eligibility. The office works with the National Personnel Records Center. Anyone needing assistance should contact the Congressman’s Plano office at 469-304-0382 to begin the process.
Johnson is a 29-year Air Force veteran and a former Prisoner of War for nearly seven years, spending more than half of that time in solitary confinement. A decorated combat veteran and war hero, Johnson received two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, one Bronze Star with Valor, two Purple Hearts, four Air Medals, and three Outstanding Unit Awards. Johnson represents the southwestern part of Collin County.
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