War Memorial Center hosts award ceremony to recognize U.S. servicemembers

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A special ceremony was held in Milwaukee to recognize U.S. servicemembers demonstrating outstanding leadership and professionalism on Wednesday, Sept. 1.

The Milwaukee Armed Services Committee announced the 2021 Wisconsin Richard Bong Awards at the War Memorial Center. Usually held in May during Armed Forces Week, it was delayed due to the pandemic. 

Five service members representing each branch of the military were honored at the ceremony, with three from the Milwaukee area.

A marine from Sheboygan talked about his work advocating for veterans' higher education at UW-Platteville.

"It's the little things, the little things that add up tot he bigger picture," Samuel Marti said. "Awards like this are what keeps marines, and other service members, working towards a goal, and working together, making everybody a more intertwined group."

This award is given to currently serving personnel in the National Guard or reserve elements of the armed services. It is named after Wisconsin native, Major Richard Bong, a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps who was a medal of honor recipient in World War II.