Fall River Vietnam veteran receives medal almost 58 years after receiving highest honor

Fall River, MA (November 17, 2023) – Almost 58 years after receiving the highest award that could be bestowed upon an individual from the Armed Forces of the Republic of Vietnam, Specialist Fourth Class Charles Norman Gagnon received his medal at the recent Fall River Veterans Day Ceremony at BMC Durfee High School.

During a meeting with State Representative Carole Fiola, Charles showed her his paperwork and shared his dismay at not having ever received his medal. “We were so moved by Mr. Gagnon’s story that I knew I had to do everything possible to make it right for him.”

Working alongside Congressman Jake Auchincloss’ office they were able to confirm Gagnon’s recognition and allow Representative Fiola to obtain the medal.

“The Veterans Day ceremony seemed like the perfect time to publicly recognize him, and VSO Michelle Hamilton and Mayor Coogan were most helpful in assuring we could finally present Mr. Gagnon with his medal.”

On November 11th, 2023, Charles Norman Gagnon was presented with the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with palm medal for his brave and courageous action on December 27th, 1965, in the Vietnam War as a helicopter Crew Chief. This is an award Mr. Gagnon was granted in 1965 while serving, but never received the medal.

“This presentation was decades late, but important in recognizing the heroic work of our veteran”.