Antelope Valley Today

Representative Mike Garcia has played a key role in assisting the Dodson family in recovering the military medals of First Lieutenant Lee Dodson, a World War II B-17 pilot. Lt. Dodson sacrificed his life during a raid over Germany on September 13, 1944, by holding his damaged plane steady for his crew to escape before crashing.

The family's previous attempt to recover the medals through another congressional office was unsuccessful due to lost records from a 1973 fire. However, after reaching out to Rep. Garcia's office in July, efforts were renewed. These efforts resulted in retrieving Dodson’s Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and other commendations.

“This is why we never give up on our veterans and their families,” stated Rep. Garcia. “Lt. Dodson’s courage and sacrifice deserve to be honored, and we’re proud to finally deliver the recognition his family fought for.”