PURPLE HEART FOR GENE LANG

On August 29, 2012, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer presented Eugene Lang with his long-awaited Purple Heart award that he earned due to injuries he suffered in combat over 40 years ago during the Vietnam War.  Following outreach from sources such as Mr. Lang, his attorney and the news media that brought this attention, Schumer and staff member Caroline Wekselbaum successfully petitioned the US Army to approve Mr. Lang's long-overdue Purple Heart.

The ceremony took place at the home of  Eugene Lang along with his wife Enid (they have been happily married for 33 years), daughter Erica and son Matthews as Schumer presented the medal in person.  Joining them were Lang's attorney Don Singer, his commanding officer Joe Carpenter, local VA veterans, as well as friends and family.

Gene actually received 4 medals this day.  Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with "V" device, Vietnam Campaign ribbon with a Silver Star and Good conduct Medal.


Three Boys From Italy aka Gaudio's Italian Family in Yorktown Hts. provided two 6-foot long sandwiches, one American and one Italian, while another local store Turco's sent over a gift basket of fresh fruit.  Less work for Enid to do.