(LEAWOOD, KAN.) – Congressman Dennis Moore (Third District -- Kansas) will honor World War II veteran Roger Atzenweiler of Leawood on Saturday, January 8, 2005, during a medals presentation. Atzenweiler, age 85, will be presented the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the highest honors bestowed in the United States for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight.

“I commend Mr. Atzenweiler for his selfless acts of courage, bravery and devotion to duty during his service as a naval aviator,” Moore said. “I am proud to help secure the medal he earned as a result of his service to our country.”

Atzenweiler enlisted in the Navy on September 15, 1941, and received a permanent commission on August 29, 1942. During World War II, Atzenweiler served in several aerial campaigns including the Asiatic–Pacific Campaign, the European-African-Middle East Campaign, and the Philippine Liberation Campaign.

He was recognized for exemplary performance of his duties throughout the course of his service, most notably with the Distinguished Flying Cross. Established in 1926, the first recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross was Charles A. Lindbergh. Other distinguished aviators to receive the award include Commander Richard Byrd and Amelia Earhart.

Atzenweiler was honorably discharged January 19, 1946. He lives in Leawood with his daughter.

WHO: Congressman Dennis Moore Roger Atzenweiler, World War II who served in several campaigns as a navel aviator and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross Lori Marquis, daughter of Roger Atzenweiler Rosemary Bradbury, sister of Roger Atzenweiler

WHEN: Saturday, January 8, 2005 1 p.m.

WHERE: Home of Roger Atzenweiler
12501 Overbrook in Leawood

Working with veterans to help secure medals that they earned in the military is just one of the many constituent services Moore’s office provides. Since being elected in 1998, he has helped thousands of individuals, families and businesses with everything from getting Social Security benefits to speeding up passport delivery to assistance with the Veterans Administration.