For Release: Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

U.S. CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO PRESENTS MILITARY MEDALS
TO BELLEVILLE VETERAN

Belleville, IL - An Air Force veteran from Belleville, Illinois was honored by receiving his military medals on Tuesday, April 18, 2006 by U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL).  Congressman Costello presented medals to Howard D. Bateman at his Congressional District Office at 155 Lincoln Place Court in Belleville, Illinois.  

Mr. Bateman is a retiree of the United States Air Force. He served from 1957 to 1978 and retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. With over 20 years of service, Mr. Bateman served at numerous duty stations and earned several medals.

Congressman Costello awarded Mr. Bateman with the Meritorious Service medal, the Air Force Commendation medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal and the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon.

Mr. Bateman previously contacted Congressman Costello's office asking for assistance in securing his medals.

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