99-year-old World War II veteran finally receives medals

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A 99-year-old Valley veteran has finally received the military medals he earned during his service in the Army during World War II.

Harry Topoozian was born in Malaga on Jan. 5, 1915. Growing up, he worked on his father's farm -- growing and picking grapes.

In March 1941, Topoozian enlisted in the Army and served as a member of the Third Army under Gen. Patton. But because his military records were later destroyed in a fire, he never got any recognition for his service until Friday.

"I never thought about getting anything like this. All these years passed by and I thought well that was it," said Topoozian.

Topoozian fought in five different battles, including the Battle of the Bulge. He received four medals, including the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.