BOISE, IDAHO – U.S. Senator Jim Risch presented Sgt. Jerry Weir of Fruitland with the Army Purple Heart at a ceremony in Boise Monday morning.  Weir received the medal for injuries received in an IED explosion in Iraq on November 2, 2005.  A medical records mix-up prevented Weir from initially receiving the Purple Heart and he asked Senator Risch for help in obtaining the medal.

"It is truly an honor for me to present you with the Army Purple Heart," said Risch.  "You are very deserving of this medal and it is unfortunate you had to wait so long before finally getting it.  All of us greatly appreciate your service to our country."

"I am very proud to serve in the U.S. Army and I appreciate Senator Risch’s help in securing the medal.  It means a great deal to me," said Weir.

Attending the ceremony was Weir's wife, Sue, his daughter, Bobbi, and son, Mitchell.  Canyon County Sheriff Chris Smith and Adjutant General Gary Sayler of the Idaho National Guard also attended along with members of the Idaho Division of Veterans Services.

Weir is currently employed by the Canyon County Sheriff’s Department.

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