A local World War II veteran finally has the medals he earned nearly 70 years ago.
Private First Class Herman Lippert, Jr. graduated from Taft High School and was drafted in March 1943.
He fought on the front lines in the Battle of the Bulge.
Thursday, Congressman Kevin McCarthy presented Lippert with six medals, including the "European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign medal with Triple Bronze Star attachment."
"This is a guy that's just a great example of a great American that did so much. On our behalf, we just want to say as a nation 'thank you' for what you've done," said Congressman McCarthy.
"Anytime I can reinforce a spirit of patriotism, nationalism and standing for what's right against all odds, if necessary. Anytime I can reinforce that, I want to do that," said Lippert.
Lippert moved back to Bakersfield in 1958 where he lives with his wife of 64 years, Peggy.
