Rep. Poliquin Presents Purple Heart to Maine Army Veteran [PHOTO]

Maine’s 2nd District Congressman, Bruce Poliquin, presented the prestigious Purple Heart to an Army Veteran from Eastern Maine who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

Purple Heart recipient Sgt. Michael Francis (left) and his wife (center) with Congressman Poliquin at Friday’s ceremony.

Army Sgt. Michael Francis, who grew up on Indian Island and now lives in Greenbush, was wounded in action when he took enemy mortar fire during his first tour in Iraq. He bravely went on to complete another tour in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and one in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was honorably discharged in 2007 and now is a truck driving instructor.

Congressman Poliquin presented the medal in a small, private ceremony at the Bangor Vets Center attended by several of the Maine soldiers Sgt. Francis served with.

During his three combat tours, Sgt. Francis was respected as a humble leader who always put the needs of his unit above his own,” said Congressman Poliquin. “While he didn’t seek recognition for his selfless service and the wounds of war he suffered as a result, he is very much deserving of this meaningful medal – the oldest military award that is still given. I want to thank Sgt. Francis and all Veterans for their sacrifices to keep us safe and free."

“I believe the best way to honor America’s uniformed sons and daughters like Sgt. Francis is to make sure we do everything humanly possible to protect the freedoms and liberties they fought so hard to defend by standing up strong against those who wish to do our Nation and its allies harm. We must also keep our promise to take care of our Troops, Veterans and military families, and always look for ways to say and show our thanks to these incredible heroes.”

Maine 2nd Congressional District Veterans and their family members may request military medals or assistance with VA services and benefits by contacting Congressman Poliquin’s Congressional District Offices in Lewiston (784-0768), Bangor (942-0583) or Presque Isle (764-1968).

Items to Note:

• Rep. Poliquin Presents Purple Heart to Bangor Family of WWII Veteran
• Ashland Hero Presented Purple Heart on Veterans Day