Watch CBS News

Staten Island Soldier Awarded Bronze Star For Actions In World War II

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Eugene Gagliardi can now proudly wear the Bronze Star.

The 87-year-old Staten Island resident enlisted in the Army at the age of 17. Some seven decades later he was recognized for his actions during the Battle of the Bulge.

Gagliardi received the Bronze Star at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn on Thursday. He spoke to 1010 WINS reporter Al Jones and described the harrowing conditions he found himself in during battle.

WWII Veteran Awarded Bronze Star 70 Years After Enlisting

"They threw everything they had, their best Panzer divisions, and we were so outnumbered," he said.

Gagliardi said he almost lost his feet and his life in the fight, but added that every soldier in his unit faced the same conditions and should be honored as well.

"I feel many other boys that were with me, they deserved it, too," he said.

You May Also Be Interested In These Stories

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.