Illinois State Representative Ryan Spain recognized Peoria resident Lt. Col. Hal Fritz on Mar. 25 as part of National Medal of Honor Day, which honors recipients of the nation’s highest military award for valor.
The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the armed forces who display extraordinary bravery and heroism in action. Since its establishment in 1861, only 3,517 individuals have received this distinction.
Lt. Col. Fritz, a native of Illinois and constituent from the state’s 73rd District, was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971 “For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.” His actions are detailed by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society on its website.
Spain, a Republican, was elected to the Illinois State House in 2017 to represent the state’s 73rd House District, replacing previous state representative David R. Leitch according to Wikipedia.
National Medal of Honor Day serves as an opportunity for communities across America to remember and celebrate those who have demonstrated exceptional courage while serving their country.
