Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has reunited a cherished piece of history with the family of late World War II Army Corporal Henry Van Der Noord from Lansing. Through Operation Purple Heart, Frerichs presented the corporal’s Purple Heart medal, marking the thirteenth successful return by this initiative, which locates and returns lost military honors to veterans’ families. The late Corporal Van Der Noord’s loved ones say the medal’s return brings great pride and closure, serving as a poignant reminder of his service and sacrifice. Operation Purple Heart continues its work, bridging the gap between heroism and heritage for Illinois families.
“Mr. Van Der Noord and his brothers served their country proudly during a crucial time in our world’s history,” Frerichs said while returning the Purple Heart to Van Der Noord’s grandson, Christopher Reed, also a veteran. “I am proud to return this honor to his loving family.”
“When I first got it, I didn’t know what the Purple Heart medal signified. I just thought it was really cool, coming in its own case,” Reed said. “Fast forward 10 years, and I’m in the Air Force. Then it was like, ‘Wow, that’s a big deal.’ They just don’t hand these things out. A lot of people’s next of kin got them. It meant more as I got older. It was quite an honor.”
“If you recognize a name, please reach out to them or their family. This is an honor that deserves to be in their loving hands, not the cold, dark vault of my office,” Frerichs said. “You also can contact my office through operationpurpleheart.org.”
