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WILMINGTON—Congressman Mike McIntyre honored a World War II veteran in Wilmington Monday.

Bud Sweetman received the Patriot Award for service abroad and at home. The veteran from Sunset Beach was wounded at the Battle of Normandy when he was 19-years-old. Sweetman underwent a life-saving blood transfusion.

Since then, Sweetman has donated more than 300 pints of blood to the American Red Cross.

"His generosity, his thoughtfulness, his motivation, his service as a citizen and as a patriot is one that we recognize today," said Rep. McIntyre.

Sweetman's actions also inspired a bill that would establish the Department of Veterans Affairs medal for distinguished public service. The medal would honor other veterans who, like Sweetman, made outstanding contributions to their communities.