Bob Norris and Richard Ricks have a visual depiction of gratitude sent to them from half a world away.

Norris and Ricks, both of Colbert County, are among 41 members of the local chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association who recently received the medals from the South Korean government.

The South Korean government has a program that presents the medals to American Korean War veterans who visit the country. When members of the local group found out about the program, they asked Norris, who is president of the local association, if they could receive the medals without having to travel to South Korea. Many of the veterans of the war that lasted from 1950-1953 are not physically able to make the trip.

Norris, a U.S. Air Force veteran, contacted the South Korean Consulate in Atlanta to make the request, which was honored. The medals were sent to every member of the local chapter.

Read more in Saturday's edition.

Bernie Delinski can be reached at 256-740-5739 or bernie.delinski@TimesDaily.com.