WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) applauds the U.S. Army for posthumously recognizing the heroic service of World War II Private First Class Homer L. Davis, a native of Morehead, Kentucky, for his exemplary performance of duty during armored combat on March 6, 1945, while serving with Company E, 32d Armored Regiment in Cologne, Germany.

Davis' family was presented with the Bronze Star Medal with letter "V" device during a ceremony on Wednesday at the World War II Memorial on the National Mall. Three other members of his valiant tanker crew were also awarded Bronze Stars during the ceremony, including Cpl. Clarence Smoyer, a tank gunner from Pennsylvania who is now 95 years old.  

"It is fitting for Mr. Davis and these incredible heroes of World War II to finally receive the long overdue recognition they deserve on the grounds of the World War II Memorial. Together, his team led a valiant effort to secure a critical bridge in Cologne, Germany, while taking direct fire from enemy lines 74 years ago. Today, the Army rightfully expressed the gratitude of our nation for their determination and success," said Congressman Rogers. "I was proud to welcome the Davis family in Washington, DC to show my personal appreciation, on behalf of Kentucky's Fifth Congressional District, for Mr. Davis' brave service and sacrifice. They said Mr. Davis returned home after the war and worked as an electrician at Morehead State University until his passing in 2004 - a quiet, unsung hero." 

Additionally, Davis will receive a Purple Heart, along with the Army Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one Silver Service Star, Army of Occupation Medal with Germany clasp, World War II Victory Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Expert Badge with Rifle bar, Sharpshooter Badge with Machine Gun bar, Honorable Service Lapel Button-World War II, and Belgian Fourragere. 

Click here to watch a video clip of the ceremony. 

Congressman Rogers congratulates the Davis family 
for receiving PFC Homer Davis' Bronze Star

PFC Homer "Smokey" Davis (pictured bottom left) and his crew 
were retroactively awarded Bronze Stars

Chuck Davis receives the Bronze Star on behalf of his father, PFC Homer Davis