Va. Vietnam vet to get delayed medals

A Woodbridge man who risked his life to rescue a group of Vietnamese Marines during the Vietnam War is receiving a Silver Star and a Distinguished Flying Cross — 39 years after his heroic deeds.

Ronald Markiewicz was an Army lieutenant and helicopter pilot in 1971, serving near the Laotian border. In March of that year he flew two missions in which his chopper was hit with anti-aircraft fire. He was wounded both times.

The first mission resupplied a group of Vietnamese Marines and picked up wounded servicemen. The second allowed troops to recover downed helicopter crews.

Markiewicz will receive his medals from Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., in a ceremony Monday in Annandale. Connolly's office says it's not unusual for soldiers to face delays in receiving medals, but 39 years is out of the ordinary.

-- Associated Press