MARION, Ill. (WSIL)-- A big honor for the local Marion family of a late World War II veteran.

Through Operation Purple Heart, Chrystal Cantrell was reunited with her great uncle’s long-missing Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs held the ceremony at the Marion VFW Post 1301 on Thursday.

It was a very emotional moment for family members of Army Private Stephen J. Grabowski, who served during World War II.

Frerichs shared the service details his office discovered about Private Grabowski. He said Grabowski took part in Operation Grapeshot, the final Allied attack of the Italian Campaign.

“Private Grabowski sacrificed a great deal to stop an evil dictator and ensure a free world,” Frerichs said. “It is never too late to honor the sacrifices of the Greatest Ge

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