Maurice Sherman Maurice Sherman of Southport holds the Army medals he received last week, 54 years after World War II. (Photo Sarah Sherman Brewer)

The awards included the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with four battle stars, the Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, a Sharpshooter Badge with Pistol Bar, an Expert Badge with Carbine Bar, and an Honorable Service lapel button.

The awards were 54 years overdue.

Sherman and his daughter, Sarah Sherman Brewer, applied for the awards over two years ago, but he never received a response until May 20, 1999. He was then informed that the Army Reserve Personnel Command had transferred its duties to the National Personnel Records Center, and any requests submitted within the last two years would be answered as soon as possible. The letter also stated that if he didn't hear from them within 90 days, he should reapply.

Sarah wanted to see her father get the recognition he deserved, so she contacted Ben Black at Senator Olympia Snowe's office to see what could be done about the situation. Black took over from there and made the necessary inquiries, which sped up the bureaucratic process and got Mr. Sherman his medals.

During the war, Sherman served in the Army in North Africa and Italy. He was a forward observer with the 248th Field and Artillery Battalion, and was wounded in combat in Italy.

He served his country for over four years before he was discharged in September of 1945.

If anyone would like to know how to apply for service awards, Sarah Sherman Brewer would be happy to help. Call her at 633-7161.