New Mexico Rep. Alcon presented with Vietnam War medals

VILLAGE OF MILAN, N.M. — A New Mexico state lawmaker has finally received his medals for his service during the Vietnam War.

The Gallup Independent reports Democratic Rep. Eliseo “Lee” Alcon was presented last week with a Bronze Star for his service as a combat medic and other honors. The medals came almost 50 years after Alcon was discharged from the U.S. Army and was never presented his medals.

Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969, Alcon served in Vietnam in the 6th Battalion 11th Artillery.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich says Alcon asked for his assistance to get a service medal last year. Heinrich presented Alcon with the Bronze Star at a special ceremony.

Alcon also was presented with an Army Commendation and a Good Conduct award.