Purple Heart Returned to Long Island Family

John Mitty Friday, July 5, 2013

During World War II, Staff Sgt. Arnold Haapala from Elmont, Long Island, was killed in action during the invasion of Normandy, a fierce battle and a key turning point in the war against the Third Reich.  Haapala receieved a purple heart for his heroic actions and his sacrifice, one of the highest honors which can be awarded to a member of the United States military.  The purple heart belonged to his widow until she passed away.  At that point, her estate was sold since nobody in the family was available to care for it.  The medal was on the estate, so it went to the purchaser.  The man who purchased the medal from the estate then gave it to his congressman. 

The congressman, realizing how important it was for the medal to find its way back home, ordered his staff to track down the family of the Long Island hero so that the medal could be returned to them.  Eventually the family was located and the medal was given back to Haapala’s surviving relatives.  “It stands for a man who gave the ultimate—his life—for our country,” said Haapala’s proud and grateful niece, Carol Pacifico, speaking to CBS 2. 

jmitty@longislandyellowpages.com

Appears In: Business News

 

 

• Business News
• Education
• Entertainment
• Jobs & Careers
• Local Events
• Local Steals, Deals & More
• Press Releases
• Restaurants & Food
• Sports & Recreation

Columnists John M.   Show all Columnists