Press Releases

Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement after presenting Corporal James C. Rasnake of Abingdon with a Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for his valorous actions in Korea on September 15, 1950. After the platoon came under enemy fire, Sgt. Dale Larsen was seriously wounded.  As the enemy combatant stood with his gun just a few feet away from Sgt. Larsen, taking aim at his head again, Corporal Rasnake shot and killed the attacker. Corporal Rasnake told the immobile Sgt. Larsen to put his arms around his neck and then crawled under the heavy machine gun fire, with Sgt. Larsen on his back, to a safer location.  He then crafted a stretcher using two rifles to carry Sgt. Larsen approximately one mile to receive aid. Without these quick actions, Sgt. Larsen may not be alive today.  The ceremony took place on November 14, 2011, in Washington, D.C. with Sgt. Larsen and Corporal Rasnake’s family also in attendance:

“It is amazing how folks from ordinary lives can do such historic things,” said Congressman Griffith. “The story of Corporal Rasnake’s act of bravery and courage under fire is remarkable. This Bronze Star Medal is truly deserved.  It was an honor to be a part of this special ceremony.”

From left to right: Congressman Dan Benishek (R-MI), Sgt. Dale Larsen of Michigan, Corporal James C. Rasnake of Abingdon, Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA).

Background on the Bronze Star Medal:  The Bronze Star Medal was authorized by President Roosevelt through Executive Order 9419 on February 4, 1944, retroactive to December 7, 1941. According to Army Regulation 600–8–22, this medal is awarded to those who “distinguished himself or herself by heroic or meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in aerial flight, in connection with military operations against an armed enemy; or while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.” The “V” (Valor) device denotes “participation in acts of heroism involving conflict with an armed enemy.”

For more photos from the event, please click here.