PRESS RELEASE
CLARENCE — Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today recognized former Staff Sergeant Harold Brunswick “Bud” Long of Nunda, NY as his office’s July ‘Veteran of the Month.’
“It was a privilege to present Mr. Long with a small gesture of gratitude for his service during World War II in front of his friends and family,” said Congressman Collins. “We enjoy the freedoms we all share today because of veterans like Mr. Long and the sacrifices they made. That is why we recognize him, as well as all the patriotic veterans in New York’s 27th District.”
Prior to enlisting, Mr. Long worked on P-40s with Curtis Wright, Inc. located in Buffalo. Then on October 14th, 1942, Mr. Long enlisted into the Army Air Forces where he completed basic training to become a B-26 specialist. He was then stationed at Hunter Field in Savannah, Georgia where he was apart of the 83rd Airfield Damage Repair Maintenance Squadron.
In support of the war, Mr. Long was deployed to England where he traveled throughout Europe with his unit to maintain and create emergency air strips. His unit was also assigned Temporary Active Duty to 19 TAG Patton Headquarters in support of clearing the way for Patton’s units throughout Europe. Mr. Long’s most notable campaign was storming the beaches of Normandy, France where Allied forces began liberating Western Europe from Nazi Germany’s control. On September 20th, 1945.
Mr. Long was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and a letter of Appreciation by General Patton. In 2018, he was the recipient of New York State Medal of Merit and New York State Conspicuous Service Star from former Senator Young and Governor Cuomo.
Amongst friends and family, Mr. Long was presented with an American Flag that was flown over the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. and a Congressional Certificate of Commendation.
Additionally, the French Consulate rewarded Mr. Long with the insignia of Knight in the Legion of Honor for his tremendous sacrifice to liberate France from the clutches of totalitarianism during WWII.
To nominate a NY-27 “Veteran of the Month,” please submit an inquiry to NY27Veteran@mail.house.gov, or contact our Lancaster district office at (716) 634-2324.
