More than a decade after his death, a Daviess County family has the medals belonging to their World War II veteran.
PFC Isaac Taylor of Owensboro was a decorated member of the Army during World War II, deploying to New Guinea and the South Phillipines, among other places. Over time, those medals became lost.
After his death in 2007, his family began a quest to replace his commendations with assistance from Senator Rand Paul’s office.
Following a presentation at the lawmaker’s Bowling Green office on Monday, Sibaria Taylor said she’s always known her dad was a hero, but added she’s proud to now have his Bronze Star as a tangible reminder.
“African-Americans didn’t get recognition in World War II," Taylor said. "They came back to a country trying to kill them and they weren’t allowed to vote, so it means a lot to recognize my dad who was an African-American.”
The medals presented to the Taylor family included the Bronze Star, Good Conduct, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign & Bronze Star, WWII Victory, CIB, Philippine Liberation Ribbon & Bronze Star, Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII, and Marksman Badge & Rifle Bar.
Ina Taylor, the widow of PFC Taylor, said the medals are a priceless family heirloom.
"I'm just glad this was done because it's something to pass down to the children, to know that he was an important man," Taylor told WKU Public Radio. "They already knew it, but this really concretes that."
Senator Paul said ceremonies like these remind him of why it’s important for Congress to carefully deliberate when the country goes to war. He said service members don’t get to decide when or where they deploy, yet willingly go.
