Veteran Jose Bono was honored with five medals 65 years after his service in the Air Force.
His family, special guests and community members were there to see it happen.
Bono is 91 years old, and he said he served in the Air Force to keep America free for his family and for generations to follow.
Often Veterans walk away with just the memories, or the scars earned on the battlefield.
But for Bono, he's made a new memory as the moment to decorate him with five medals for his service during World War II finally came.
"His service to our country was incredible," said Senator Eddie Lucio, the guest of honor.
Overcome by emotion, Bono thanked a committee made up of several Valley leaders for their efforts for pursuing and obtaining the medals he earned back in World War II.
"The fact that I'm being called a hero, I don't feel like a hero, I feel like I did my duty and that was to serve a great country," said Bono.
Bono said although he is humbled and honored, receiving the medals now or 65 years ago, wouldn't have changed his perspective about his role in the Air Force.
Bono said his medals will go up on the wall along with his other war keepsakes.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKGBT