Photo courtesy of Senator Roger Wicker’s Office
Earlier this week, Billups H. (Bill) Allen, a Mississippi native and World War II veteran, had a birthday celebration unlike any other.
During a surprise ceremony on Monday at The Blake, an assisted living facility in Ridgeland, Allen celebrated his 100th birthday and received the Bronze Star Medal – the service�s fourth-highest award.�
Lieutenant-Colonel David Martian of the Mississippi Army National Guard presented the Bronze Star to Mr. Allen. Lt. Col. Martian also gave Allen the Army of Occupation medal and a replacement medal for Allen�s Purple Heart award, which was lost in December 1945 when he was evacuated from a hospital in England during the Battle of the Bulge.�Allen was an infantry platoon leader (lieutenant) with the 29th Division in Europe.
Allen�s family released a statement announcing the award and thanking those who helped make this happen.�
�The family would like to extend their appreciation to [U.S. Senator Roger] Wicker, the Mississippi Army National Guard, and the staff of The Blake [assisted living facility] for making the celebration and presentation possible.�
Senator Wicker assisted the family with the application for the medal, which was awarded to Mr. Allen just days after the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.
�Bill Allen is an American hero who distinguished himself in service during World War II. I was happy to help his family get him the recognition he deserves,� Wicker said.
Attendance was limited to family members and facility staff because of COVID-19 restrictions.
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