Local Men Given Service Medals

U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite, R-Brooksville, presented medals to several veterans
during a ceremony this month.

Richard Zeranski of Saint Joe, served in the US Navy from 1966 to 1970 and served in Vietnam. Richard went to Pasco High School and has done a lot of volunteer service for
the San Antonio community and for non-profit organizations. Richard is a professional
heavy equipment mechanic, having learned his mechanical trade as a jet engine mechanic
in the navy. He now puts his knowledge and talent to work keeping large farm equipment
operating for local farmers, and providing mechanical service on large diesel trucks.
Richard is also a home farmer, growing  and canning many of his own vegetables.

Although it took more than 60 years for William Evatt finally to receive his medals, the ceremony presentedseven veterans medals in recognition for the service to our country. William "Whitey" Evatt, a 77-year-old Zephyrhills man who served in the Army from 1944 to 1946, was bestowed the World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal and a World War II honorable service lapel button.

The seven Pasco County military veterans were given awards medals :

• Willam Evatt of Zephyrhills,  who served in the Army from 1944 to 1946
• Lawrence Edward Dailey of Zephyrhills, who served in the Army from 1958 to 1964.
• The late Steven Frank LaVallie, who served in the Army from 1942 to 1944.
• Robert C. Letson of Zephyrhills, who served in the Navy from 1952 to 1956.
• Richard Donald Rutter, Jr. of Dade City, who served in the Army from 1968 to 1970.
• Barney James Scantling of Dade City, who served in the Army from 1965 to 1985.
• Richard Zeranski of Dade City, who served in the Navy from 1966 to 1970.