Purple Hearts Awarded To 2009 Fort Hood Massacre Survivors, Victims
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FORT HOOD (CBSDFW.COM) - Five and a half years after the 2009 Fort Hood massacre, came confirmation that the global War on Terror includes Texas as a battleground.
Forty-four Purple Hearts were awarded to those wounded and the families of those killed in 2009, by a radical Islamist Infiltrator.
For the first time since that dreadful day, 30 wounded survivors gathered once again in the same spot at Fort Hood. The 13 killed on that day were represented by their families.
They all received the military's oldest honor that many say were long overdue.
For Sgt. Alonzo Lunsford, who was shot seven times, it's validation.
"It's priceless. It is a medal that shows we have given blood, sweat and tears of sacrifice," said Lunsford.
Lunsford was one of 42 soldiers awarded Purple Hearts for injuries suffered during a 2009 shooting spree by a fellow soldier on the Army post who last year was sentenced to death.
"While no words can resurrect those we lost or completely erase the scars, today's ceremony is an opportunity to provide a sense of closure to those who were injured or lost a loved one," said Lt. Gen. Sean B MacFarland, III Corps and Fort Hood Commanding General.
Texas' top elected officials attended the ceremony, including Governor Greg Abbott.
IIt's a shame that this day even has to occur," said Abbott.
Recipients like Eric Jackson were thankful for the recognition, but questioned why it took so long. He and others are still waiting for the back pay and benefits.
"It's kind of hard not to be bitter because you wonder where is the recognition? Where's the respect? Where's the support?" questioned SSG Eric Jackson.
The families of the 13 who died accepted their Purple Hearts and two civilians were honored with Defense of Freedom medals.
They include police officer Kimberly Hunley who shot Nidal Hasan ending his rampage, while she herself was wounded.
"I've made piece in my mind about all that and the injuries I suffered," she said.
The building where the massacre took place has been torn down. All that remains is a plaque and the memories of those who gathered there at the post one final time.
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