Collinsville, IL - Congressmen Mike Bost (IL-12) and Rodney Davis (IL-13) presented Specialist Fourth Class (ret.) Stephen Baldwin with the Bronze Star Medal on Tuesday.

The fourth-highest award for military combat bravery, the Bronze Star Medal is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for heroic achievement, heroic service, meritorious achievement, and meritorious service in a combat zone.

“I was honored to present this medal on behalf of a grateful nation to Spc. Baldwin. As many who know him and served with him have said, nobody deserves this medal more,” said Rep. Bost. “He is one of the many brave men and women who have risked their lives on behalf of our great nation. I cannot begin to express my gratitude for his heroic service. Southern Illinois is lucky to have Spc. Baldwin as part of our community. We are proud and we thank him.”

“Recognizing our military veterans for their service is one of the most humbling parts of my job,” Davis said. “It is truly an honor to present Spc. Baldwin with this distinction that he earned through his service to our country.”

Baldwin was drafted to serve in the U.S. Army at the age of 22 before deploying with the 23rd Infantry (American Division) from 1970 to 1971. Upon his honorable discharge, Baldwin received the Army Commendation Medal and the National Defense Service Medal for his service. However, despite the orders that were issued to award him the Bronze Star, he never received the medal and numerous other awards.

Congressmen Bost and Davis presented Baldwin with the Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Expert Badge with Rifle Bar, Marksman Badge with Auto-Rifle Bar, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device.

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