JEFFERSON CITY -- The Missouri World War II Veterans' Award Recognition Program will be coming to a close in a few months, and State Sen. John Griesheimer, R-Washington, reminds all Missourians who qualify for this honor to contact the Missouri Veterans' Award Recognition office and request an application. Deadline for an application to be submitted is July 1, 2003.

"The men who fought in World War II literally saved the world," said Sen. Griesheimer. "This program is Missouri's way of thanking them for their sacrifices."

During the 2002 legislative session, the General Assembly passed House Bills 1398 and 1399 amending the World War II program to allow spouses to apply and receive the World War II medal, medallion and certificate on behalf of veterans who had died prior to making application. In addition, the legislation extended the eligible active duty dates from Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946.

Since the program was initiated in 2001, more than 40,000 World War II veterans have taken part in the World War II Veterans' Award Recognition. To be eligible for the medallion, medal and certificate, a veteran must have served in a U.S. military force between Dec. 7, 1941 and Dec. 31, 1946. Applicants also must have been honorably discharged from military service unless they are still in active service in an honorable status, according to the legislation.

Information needed for the application form are current address, serial number, branch of service, rank, unit and dates of World War II service. Veterans will need to submit a copy of Record of Discharge or Department of Defense Form 214 as military service documentation.

"The war in Iraq has reminded us once again of the importance of rallying around our troops," Sen. Griesheimer said. "It's especially appropriate that we remind Missourians who qualify for this recognition to receive the honor they are due."

Those eligible can obtain application forms by calling the Missouri World War II Veterans' Award Recognition office at (573) 638-9561 or toll-free 1-800-834-3431. The application is also available online at the Missouri National Guard website, www.moguard.com.