War Hero Honored by Reps

At American Legion Post 48 in Hudson on Friday, U.S. Reps. Joe Courtney, CT-2, and Ann McLane Kuster, D-NH-2, presented John Ekenbarger with medals earned during his service in the Korean War, according to a press statement. Ekenbarger served as an Anti-aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Crewman in the 2nd Infantry Division, U.S. Army.

“The resilience it took for Mr. Ekenbarger to return from the terrible experience of being held prisoner by enemy forces, and rejoin his community is inspiring,” Courtney said. “I am honored to help preserve the story of Mr. Ekenbarger’s service and sacrifice by securing these medals, which will be an important part of his family’s heritage for future generations.”

“Mr. Ekenbarger served his country heroically during the Korean war and faced extreme danger as a POW in order to fight for the ideals we all hold dear,” said Kuster. “I was so proud to be given the opportunity to honor Mr. Ekenbarger and his family during today’s medal ceremony, and to thank him for all he has done for his nation, his community, and his loved ones. He is a true hero.”

Ekenbarger, 84, formerly of Stafford Springs, CT, was taken prisoner by North Korean forces in December 1950, and held for two years, nine months, and two weeks before being released on August 12, 1953, during Operation Big Switch. After the war, Mr. Ekenbarger returned home in Stafford Springs, where he raised his family, and eventually moved to Nashua. Congressman Courtney’s office secured Ekenbarger’s medals after being contacted by a family friend in eastern Connecticut, Michael Rogalsky. Kuster, whose father was a POW during WWII, currently serves on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and was pleased to join with Congressman Courtney in honoring her constituent Mr. Ekenbarger at this event.

Mr Ekenbarger received:

• The Prisoner of War Medal
• National Defense Service Medal
• Korean Service Medal with Silver Star Attachment
• United Nations Service Medal
• Korean War Service Medal-Awarded on the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War