text: It was a distinct honor to present the Purple Heart to Jeff Fortner, who accepted the medal on behalf of his deceased father James H. Fortner.  James Fortner enlisted in the Army at age 17 in June 1965, and he was later medically retired in 1968 as a direct result of combat.  He served honorably in the 1st Battalion, 32 Infantry and was deployed for 6 months to Korea and 12 months in Vietnam.  In addition to the Purple Heart, Jeff also received on behalf of his father the Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with 4 bronze service stars; Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with device; Marksman Badge with Machine Gun Bar, Pistol Bar, and Rifle Bar; and Korea Defense Service Medal.  James Fortner was a true American hero, and it was a privilege to learn about his life from his son Jeff.