Occupation Medal Awarded Posthumously

Is it possible for the Army Occupation medal to be awarded posthumously? My Grandfather was in Italy during the required time period, but since he was discharged near the end of '45, he was never issued the award. With the passage of the Stolen Valor Act, I don't want to just assume that he's entitled and go buy a medal, but if he's authorized to have it, I'd like to get the process started.

~Thanks
Dave

 

Hi Doughboy, according to Lou, on my post,

" Re: Help/Question on WW2 Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal
Hi, Tom. As far as I can tell, he should be eligible for both medals. You can apply to NARA for a full complement of his awards. Go to this site for the necessary information. Military Personnel Records

My understanding is that the ribbons were awarded, but the vet had to apply for the medals, although I could be mistaken. My father never bothered to get his until the 1980's at the urging of a VFW post. I have since obtained another full set for a shadow box.

Good luck, and keep us informed of your progress.

Lou

 

tkelly, I learned my brother never received the Medal for Humane Services and the Berlin Airlift Device to wear on the Occupation Medal until 1995 (he was killed in 1950).
I sent NARA the necessary proof along with a request for correction of military records (you can get a copy off the NARA site) and was awarded with the two awards, and also the bronze arrowhead for his invasion of Sicily which I didn't know he had coming. They also sent a upgraded DD-214 to show these awards.
If the Occupation Medal is already on his records, it's just a matter of requesting a replacement set of medals as Lou said. You should be able to get what's he's entitled to.