After more than six decades, 86-year-old Brooklyn veteran Fred Futterman was be awarded Navy medals for his distinguished service during World War II, after Brooklyn/Queens Congressman Anthony Weiner secured the medals, ensuring that Futterman is finally awarded the honors he deserves.
Futterman, who served as a member of the Patrol Bombing Squadron 63 during World War II, traveled in hazardous flying conditions from Wales to North Africa to Iceland aboard seaplane PBY. He completed a total of 73 combat missions between 1943 and 1944. In 1945, Futterman received a medal for his service.
Decades later, when he realized there were more medals owed to him, Futterman contacted Weiner’s office through the Kingsborough Community College’s veterans group in June.
Weiner provided the Navy Department with records of Futterman’s flight logs and tallied his completed missions. Recently, Weiner secured both a Distinguished Flying Cross with two gold stars and an Air Medal decorated with three gold stars and two silver stars and presented them to Futterman.
Futterman, who recently marked the 63rd anniversary from when he was honorably discharged from the Navy, said, “I have been waiting for these medals for over 60 years. I thank Congressman Weiner for bringing the decades-long memories back.”
“In the face of great danger, Mr. Futterman has served with devotion and courage. These medals are a long time coming and I am honored to recognize his heroism and love of country,” said Weiner.
