Atomic Veterans Commemorative Service Medal

For his service to our Nation during the 1957 Operation Plumbbob Atomic Tests, Corporal (Retired) James S. Despard is awarded the Atomic Veterans Commemorative Service Medal and the Atomic Veterans Service Certificate.

Established with the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act, the Atomic Commemorative Service Medal is awarded to commemorate the service of veterans of the Armed Forces in the United States, who, while performing official military duties, directly participated in the detonation of an atomic weapon and were thereby exposed to its radiation.

These brave Veterans service and sacrifice directly contributed to the Nation's defense during the Cold War of July 1945 to October 1992.

With great honor and appreciation, the Secretary of Defense of the United States authorizes the awarding of the Atomic Veterans Commemorative Service Medal to Corporal James S. Despard.

Story County Supervisor Chair Lisa Heddens and Story County Veterans Affairs Director Zachary Skelton were present for the award ceremony.