State Rep. Bronna Kahle of Adrian and Sen. Dale Zorn welcomed Lenawee County resident Frank Dick to the Capitol, presenting him with a legislative tribute commemorating his service during World War II.
“Those who have served our great nation deserve our respect and recognition for their sacrifices,” Rep. Kahle said. “Frank’s incredible desire to serve is acknowledged through his time as a soldier in World War II and as he continued to give back to those around him after returning home. It was an honor to have the opportunity to recognize Frank at the Capitol and thank him for his service on behalf of the state of Michigan.”
At 18 years-old, Frank answered the call to serve upon graduating high school as a member of Patton’s Third Army, 80th Division, 317th Infantry Regiment, Company I, famously known as the Blue Ridge Mountain Boys. Frank first arrived on the battlefront December 15, 1944 in the Ardennes region of Belgium as the German forces mounted their final major offensive on the Western Front.
Known as the Battle of the Bulge, the German offensive went on to last six brutal weeks and took place during frigid weather conditions, which made even surviving the cold difficult for soldiers.
Following the Battle of the Bulge, on February 19, 1945, Frank found himself caught using a foxhole for cover. He sustained significant injuries from incoming mortar fire during the battle, which resulted in 100 percent disability. For his service and role in the battle, Frank was awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the good conduct medal, and the combat infantry badge, among others.
Frank has gone on to lead a remarkable life, continuing to build upon his service and leadership as a civilian. After being honorably discharged, Frank and his wife Shirley lived throughout northern Ohio and southern Michigan as Frank took positions as superintendent of schools in Sylvania and Toledo, and eventually as president of Gleaner Life Insurance Society.
“Having the opportunity to honor these veterans here today is something I will never forget,” Sen. Zorn said. “They should be honored and celebrated, as they ensured through their leadership and sacrifice we remain the land of the free and home of the brave.”
*Media in this post courtesy of the Office of State Representative Bronna Kahle*
Tune into our local and state newscasts, anytime day or night, for this story and more.
Follow WLEN-FM: 
#wlenradio #wlennews #lenaweenews