For Release: Monday, January 9, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

U.S. CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO PRESENTS MILITARY MEDALS
TO JOHNSTON CITY VETERAN'S FAMILY

West Frankfort, IL - A World War II veteran from Johnston City, Illinois was honored by posthumously receiving his military medals on Friday, January 6, 2006  by U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL). Congressman Costello presented the medals to the family of Benjamin E. Little at his West Frankfort Congressional District Office at 201East Nolen Street.

Mr. Little served in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1942 to 1945. He served in the 136th Infantry and took part in military campaigns in New Guinea and the Philippines. Mr. Little passed away in 1996.

Congressman Costello awarded Mr. Little's family with the Bronze Star medal, the Purple Heart, the Good Conduct medal, the Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal and bronze star attachment, the World War II Victory medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the Honorable Service Lapel Button and Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar.

Mr. Little's son, Bennie Little, previously contacted Congressman Costello's office asking for assistance in securing his father's medals.

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