WWII veteran to receive medals more than 65 years later
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A Rhode Island man who participated in the invasions of Italy during World War II is finally getting the medals he earned more than 65 years ago.
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and state Sen. Marc Cote plan to present six medals and awards to George Bourque on Friday at the Woonsocket Senior Center.
Bourque was awarded the commendations when he was discharged, but he never received them.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A Woonsocket native, Bourque served on a landing ship that ferried troops, vehicles and supplies to shore. During the invasion of Italy his ship was hit at least 38 times by enemy fire.