MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Many are calling local WWII Veteran Wilbur "Bill" Hoffman an American hero.
Hoffman was part of the Elite Army Rangers that helped the U.S. and its allies capture Normandy on D-Day.
Hoffman was honored for the 24 years of faithful service he dedicated to the U.S. Army. That service included storming the beach at Normandy on June 6, 1944.
Hoffman told abc24.com, "I never felt outstanding or nothing like that."
Mr. Hoffman was given a Bronze star with a V-device for valor, a Ranger tab, and a Purple Heart for injuries he suffered during the war. The Army tried to give him a Purple Heart nearly 70 years ago but he refused because he didn't think he deserved one.
"I was in the hospital when they offered it to me, there were guys next to me with no arms, no legs. I was just wounded, no blood, so I said nah, I don't think so."
After hearing about Hoffman's refusal, Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) contacted the U.S. Army who determined not only did Hoffman deserve a Purple Heart, he deserved the other medals as well.
