On Veterans Day, Jim Kunkle Sr. had the thrill of participating in a prestigious ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery honoring those who have defended our country in the military services. His fellow Santa Ynez Valley resident, actress Bo Derek, also took part as mistress of ceremonies, introducing Vice President Dick Cheney, the guest speaker. However, Kunkle and other veterans are veterans every day – and he is a certified hero from World War II who’s still flying a plane today.
He is a member of the Legion of Valor of the United States of America, which is a distinguished group of war heroes who have received awards for extraordinary valor in action. “The Legion of Valor sends speakers to schools, to help promote patriotism. I invite readers to go to the Web site LegionofValor.com to find some really inspiring information. The Legion of Valor also has a fine museum in Fresno,” Kunkle said.
The Legion of Valor was initiated in April 1890 in Washington, D.C., for soldiers who had received Medal of Honor. It now includes recipients of the Army Distinguished Service Cross, Navy men and Marines who received the Navy Cross, the Air Force Medal of Honor, and the Air Force Cross.