Shaheen Informs WWII Veteran Francis Byrne That He’ll Be Awarded Purple Heart

Secretary of the Army Mark Esper informed Senator Shaheen of the good news in a phone call this evening which Senator Shaheen relayed to Francis Byrne

Senator Shaheen’s office has been working on Francis Byrne’s application for a Purple Heart since August

(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced that World War II veteran and Manchester resident Francis Byrne will finally be awarded a Purple Heart. Francis Byrne fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and was injured in the line of duty in France when he was hit by shrapnel from a landmine. Senator Shaheen’s office has been relentlessly advocating for Mr. Byrne. Following a phone call today with Secretary of the Army Mark Esper, Senator Shaheen called Mr. Byrne to share the good news. 

“Francis Byrne is an American hero and I’m so thrilled that he will finally receive his Purple Heart for his incredible sacrifice and service,” said Shaheen. “I’m very grateful to Secretary Esper and his staff for working closely with my office to make this happen. I’m now working with the Secretary and his staff to arrange expedited delivery of this award to Mr. Byrne in Manchester. This Purple Heart is invaluable to Mr. Byrne and his family, and I so look forward to seeing him presented with it in the near future.”