Coast Guard awards WWII hero with Navy, Marine Corps Medal

WHO: Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Pittsburgh/Thomas A. Vitale

WHAT: Presentation of the Navy and Marine Corps Medal

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 at 10:15 a.m.

WHERE: American Legion, 820 Broad Ave, Belle Vernon, Pa., 15012

PITTSBURGH — The Coast Guard will honor a World War II hero with the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at an American Legion in Pittsburgh, Friday.

Thomas A. Vitale will receive the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroic efforts while helping exhausted and helpless survivors reach the safety of the USS Comanche during a torpedo attack on the S.S. Dorchester, Feb. 3, 1943.

"This award recognizes that Mr. Vitales' actions were in keeping with the highest ideals of military service and in particular the Coast Guard life-saving ethos," said Cmdr. Richard Timme, commanding officer of MSU Pittsburgh. "We are honored to have a part in presenting it to one of our genuine World War II heroes."

###

Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790.
The United States Coast Guard -- Proud History. Powerful Future.