Vietnam veteran receives overdue awards

WEST HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- A Vietnam veteran from West Haven is finally being rewarded for his heroic actions during the war.

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro had the honor of presenting Michael Healey with five long overdue awards for his service in Vietnam.

"The National Defense Service medal..."

The others included an Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Service medal, two bronze service stars and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon.

"I feel like it's been a long time coming and I never thought I'd see this day," said Healey a Former Army Combat Engineer.

Healey served in the Army from 1970 to 1972, which included a stint in Vietnam.

Today's emotional ceremony nearly brought his wife Carol to tears.

"It's something he deserved and now he finally got it and it was a long, long road to get there and I want to thank everyone for coming. This is a special day for Michael," said Carol.

The Healey's thanked Congresswoman Rosa De-Lauro for her help in getting Michael the rocognition he deserved for his actions during the war.

"Thank you for helping me, thank you," said Healey.

It was also a day of great pride for the city of West Haven.

"You know how we feel here in West Haven about veterans, you've been to Bradley Point, you see what we do, but it's never enough and I mean this, thank you. We are priviledged, we are honored to do whatever we can to help," said West Haven Mayor Jon Picard.

Healy, the son of a World War Two veteran called his service to the nation the 'honorable' thing to do and like most heroes, he's humble about his accomplishments.

"I did what I had to do, that's what I want to say, I did what I had to do," said Healey.

Congresswoman DeLauro's office could not tell News 8 why Mr. Healey didn't receive his medals before today but they do say sometimes they're either lost or not received when a soldier is discharged.