(OVERLAND PARK, KAN.) – Congressman Dennis Moore (Third District-KS) met with the family of Colonel Walter Henry Oades on Wednesday to present to them the awards and decorations he earned during his service in the United States Air Force. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, April 12, 2006, in Leawood at a family home.

“I consider it a privilege to give our veterans the recognition they deserve for their dedication and sacrifice,” Moore said. “I’m pleased that I could help return Col. Oades’ medals to his family and join in their celebration of his life and service to his country.”

In January 2006, in response to a request from John Oades, Colonel Oades’ son, Congressman Moore’s office contacted the National Personnel Records Center to inquire about obtaining replacement medals and awards for the Oades family. Nine medals were returned to the Oades family, including the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, World War II Victory, and National Defense Service medals.

“The family is excited and relieved to have Dad's medals replaced,” said John Oades. “The presentation not only honors and recognizes what Dad did for our country, but also honors the actions of all of the "Greatest Generation" and all of our veterans everywhere. Dad loved the Air Force, the camaraderie of the Service, and especially the flying. Congressman Moore and his staff have been a tremendous help in arranging the replacement of these medals. They knew all the right people to contact, making the replacement a lot easier.”

Walter Henry Oades, who passed away in January 2006, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on May 28, 1943, in the U.S. Army Air Corps and after training was assigned to bomber duty in the European Theater, where he flew 50 missions. After World War II, he continued his career in the Air Corps, now known as the U.S. Air Force, consistently advancing in rank, including a promotion to Colonel in 1970. In 1974, Colonel Oades was made Wing Vice Commander of the 442nd Tactical Airlift Wing at Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in Kansas City. He retired from the Air Force in 1975, having served the United States for over 32 years in both active and reserve duty.

“My job is to serve the people of the Third District,” Moore said. “Whether I am representing their needs in Washington or providing assistance to constituents through my local offices, I am dedicated to doing what is best for people in this area.”

Moore’s office can help cut through red tape associated with federal programs. Staff in the congressional offices have experience navigating through these programs and can often resolve problems more quickly and simply than an individual working alone.