Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs Honors WWII Veteran By Returning Lost Purple Heart Medal

Honoring Valor: The Return of a Purple Heart Medal

On the eve of Veterans Day, a heartwarming ceremony took place at VFW Post 5220 in Oak Lawn, Illinois, as State Treasurer Michael Frerichs returned a long-lost Purple Heart medal to the family of World War II veteran James R. Bennett. This special event was not just a formality, but a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless servicemen and women during wartime.

James R. Bennett served his country valiantly, enduring the harsh realities of battle in both France and Germany. He was wounded twice, once on August 13, 1944, and again on December 13, 1944. After the war, he returned home to his wife, Ann, in December 1945, where they settled in Oak Lawn and raised their family.

During the ceremony, Bennett's niece, Patti Knies, was visibly emotional as she held the Purple Heart. “He was such a wonderful man, and it is an honor to hold his Purple Heart,” she said, reflecting on the sacrifices made by not just her uncle but by so many soldiers and their families. For many veterans, recognition often comes many years after their service, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Operation Purple Heart.

Operation Purple Heart, spearheaded by Treasurer Frerichs, is an unprecedented mission aimed at locating and returning lost military honors to their rightful owners or their families. Bennett's case marks the 17th successful return of a Purple Heart under this initiative. Frerichs emphasized the significance of these medals, stating, “It is never too late to honor the men and women of the Greatest Generation.”

Initially, the medal and other personal items belonging to Bennett were discovered in a bank safe deposit box registered in Ann's name—a box whose contents had been turned over to the Illinois State Treasurer's Office for safekeeping as unclaimed property in 2022. “Safeguarding unclaimed property until it can be returned to its owners or heirs is a core function of our office,” Frerichs explained. The contents of such boxes can include not merely medals but also bank accounts, insurance benefits, and other valuables.

James Bennett’s story is one of resilience and commitment, extending beyond just his military service. While he encountered the challenges of war, he later served his community as a volunteer firefighter and part-time police officer, embodying the spirit of service both on and off the battlefield. His daughter, Susan, who faced serious health issues throughout her life, remained a source of strength and inspiration for the family; sadly, she passed away in her 50s.

Returning to the theme of remembrance, Frerichs passionately urged attendees to reach out if they recognize names on a list of unclaimed Purple Heart medals available online, remarking that such honors belong in the hands of loved ones rather than locked away in a vault.

The significance of ceremonies like this lies in their ability to connect modern generations to the sacrifices of those who came before them. Names like James R. Bennett symbolize not only the valor of the individual but also the collective memory of a nation’s history during traumatic times. As we observe moments like Veterans Day, recognizing the impact of these heroes is crucial in ensuring their contributions are not forgotten.

As individuals and communities come together to honor such sacrifices, it becomes evident that the path towards honoring veterans is not just about ceremonies—it's about continuous remembrance and appreciation. Frerichs and his team at the Illinois State Treasurer's Office continue to work diligently in fostering a culture of respect and recognition, an effort that resonates deeply every time a medal like Bennett’s is returned to its rightful family. The proud lineage tied to each medal represents a legacy worth celebrating, now and for future generations.