Rep. Zeldin Presents Overdue Bronze Star Medal To Post 9/11 Veteran LTC Michael Simonelli

PATCHOGUE, NY - On Wednesday, September 2, 2020, Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) presented the Bronze Star Medal to Lieutenant Colonel Michael J Simonelli.

Army Veteran LTC Michael Simonelli was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom between 2003 and 2004. Due to clerical errors, LTC Simonelli never received the award he was owed and was unsuccessful in retrieving it after his retirement. Rep. Zeldin’s office was able to initiate a new review process, obtaining the medal for LTC Simonelli 16 years later. LTC Simonelli was joined by his son, Mike Jr., and fellow members of the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association. 

“LTC Michael Simonelli is a prime example of the selflessness and bravery put on display by our men and women in uniform every day, and I’m honored to help heroes like him receive the recognition they deserve,” said Congressman Zeldin.