World War II Veteran Clarence Smoyer from Lehighton received the long overdue Bronze Star for his heroism in the war during a surprise ceremony in a Washington.

The medals were presented at a surprise ceremony today at the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Families of Smoyer’s deceased crew were also in attendance.

Author Adam Makos opened the ceremony to introduce Clarence, who thought he was attending a book signing. Makos has previously worked with Smoyer on a book called “Spearhead”, a story about an American tank crew.

“First, I owe Mr. Clarence Smoyer a bit of an apology,” said Makos in his opening remarks. “Clarence, we tricked you. We told you that you were going to the Pentagon today for a book signing. That is not the case. You’re going to be getting the Bronze Star that you earned in World Was II, and so is the rest of your tank crew. With a combined five Bronze Stars, you will be possibly our most decorated tank crew of World War II.”

Pennsylvania Senator Pat Toomey, General John Howerton from the White House, and other World War II comrades were in attendance. A World War II Sherman Tank was even brought to the ceremony.

“This is a real honor for me to be here as part of this terrific ceremony,” said Toomey. “One of the best parts of my job is to be able to interact and make sure that we acknowledge the greatness that we have seen throughout the country.”

Maj. Pete Semanoff, who grew up down the street from Smoyer, stood along side the podium during the latter portion of the ceremony on a picture-perfect Wednesday morning. Smoyer, the last living crew member from Eagle 7, received the Bronze Star for his heroics 75 years ago in front of his family members, which was authorized by the President of the United States.