Forty-two years after serving our country in the Vietnam War, a hero from Fernley was given his awards on Monday.
Sgt. Daniel "Barney" Franich was injured in combat when his squad took friendly fire.
"There were only four of us in our squad. Normally, there's 11. All four of us were injured and medevaced, operated on and taken to Camp Zamia for 30 to 60 days to recuperate."
Problem is Franich never was on record of being injured in battle. So, Franich petitioned the committee to amend his combat record.
Monday, 40+ years later, the committee recognized Franich and he received the Purple Heart, along with six other medals.
Franich was honored in front of his friends and family at the Federal Building in downtown Reno.
Congressman Mark Amodei was also in attendance today. Franich said Amodei played a major role in helping him get honored appropriately.
Amodei said it's an honor to take part in a ceremony like this.
"You don't get an opportunity to do this very often. It's an honor and privilege to be a part of a special day for somebody who had served with distinction during the Vietnam conflict. My hats off to them, heart goes out to the family. Congratulations to all of them."
Written by Chris Ciarlo
