Vietnam veteran from Long Island receives long overdue Purple Heart

A Vietnam veteran from Suffolk County was awarded the Purple Heart after waiting decades for the military decoration.

"It's a long time coming. I feel at peace now that I finally got something. I also got a ceremony today when I had no ceremony before," says Robert Terrell, of Selden.

The 77-year old was wounded in Vietnam back in the '60s. For years, he was unable to receive his medal because of red tape and lack of documentation.

With the help from U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota's office, the Long Island veteran was finally awarded his Purple Heart medal. "It was 57years overdue. I am proud to present this honor to him," said the congressman. Terrell was also given a congressional American flag for his military service.