Cape Girardeau veteran receives medals for service during Korean War

Raymond Burbach served in the Korean War over 60 years ago, earning a variety of medals. But until recently, he couldn't wear them all proudly on his chest.

Raymond Burbach's seven awards and accolades rest on a table Wednesday at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.Glenn Landberg

On Wednesday afternoon, U.S. Rep. Jason Smith visited the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau to present the 86-year-old veteran with the honors he earned while serving in Korea.

"I was there from January 1952 to January 1953. I was there for 12 months, two weeks, and four days," Burbach said. And in that time he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, United Nations Service Medal, the Republic of Korea-Korean War Service Medal, as well as the Army Good Conduct Medal.

"I don't know how I got that one," Burbach said with a laugh.

Burbach also was presented with a Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Cold War Recognition Certificate and a letter of appreciation from the Republic of Korea.

"This is one of the best parts of my job," Smith said. "To be able to recognize veterans for things they earned a long time ago."

Raymond Burbach shakes hands with U.S. Rep. Jason Smith on Wednesday after receiving seven awards and accolades for his service in the Korean War at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.Glenn Landberg

Smith recognized the efforts of Debbie Griffin, who handles the majority of the veterans' casework that comes through his office, and who makes it possible for veteran's to receive the awards they earned in the past.

"It's a small appreciation of what we can show for your services," Smith said of the medals. "But it's never enough."

Burbach said the commendations he received Wednesday were not the only ones he earned during his service.

"I've got other medals we got from the state, that we got in Korea," Burbach said. He received those medals long ago. He still is awaiting his unit citations, but isn't confident he'll receive them.

U.S. Rep. Jason Smith talks with Raymond Burbach on Wednesday after presenting him seven awards and accolades for his service in the Korean War at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.Glenn Landberg

Burbach plans to display his medals in a shadowbox on his wall, now that he has them.

Several members of Burbach's family were in attendance at the presentation, including his daughter, Debbie Byrd, son-in-law Danny Byrd, granddaughter Rachel Coleman and great-grandson Caidyn Byrd, all of Sedgwickville, Missouri. His niece Pat Mabry and cousin Kathy Deutsch also were present. Burbach served in the U.S. Army until 1954 before returning to his job as a welder for Combustion Engineering in St. Louis. After 36 years as a welder, Burbach became a school bus driver for 16 years in St. Charles, Missouri.

Burbach was pleased with the turnout at the event, with family and friends by his side.

"I appreciate everyone coming here, and [Smith] taking his time," Burbach said. "I think that was great."

bbrown@semissourian.com

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