OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) — Inside a modest room within the federal building in Ogden, Utah, a close-knit group of family and friends gathered for a significant occasion 55 years in the making. Staff members from Senator Mike Lee’s office set up chairs, secured a tablecloth, and prepared to honor their special guest – Mr. Lloyd Williams, a Vietnam War veteran.

Affiliate KTVX first encountered Mr. Williams in November of 2024 during an Honor Flight event. He was among numerous veterans visiting monuments and memorials that pay tribute to America’s servicemembers and the various conflicts they endured.

While touring Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, Mr. Williams recalled his experience returning from the Vietnam War.

“When I came home, I was so embarrassed,” Williams shared. “I threw all my uniforms away, my medals away. I got rid of everything. I didn’t want anything to do with being a soldier. That’s how bad it made me feel. Now, I wish I had them back.”

Honor Flight organizers heard his story and quickly contacted the office of Senator Mike Lee. A longtime caseworker on staff, Emily Wiscombe, coordinated the work to replace Mr. Williams’ medals.

“This is the best part of my job,” exclaimed Ms. Wiscombe. “It’s so gratifying to know we made a little bit of a difference in their lives.”

Back inside the small room in the federal building, Wiscombe, other staff members, and family and friends of Mr. Williams, watched intently as five medals were picked up from the table and placed in Mr. Williams’s hands. It was a return of honor 55 years in the making.

An emotional Williams, wearing a black Vietnam veteran hat, remarked at the experience.

“I wear this hat and people will just come up to me and say ‘Welcome Home.’ That means the world to me because I never got that. I never got that at all, and I appreciate it,” he said.

Mr. Williams is one of many Utahns who qualify for various federal services, including replacement of military medals and commendations. If you need help with a similar situation, you can find resources here: Assistance with Federal Agencies – Mike Lee US Senator for Utah.

You can also learn more about Utah Honor Flight through the nonprofit’s website.