ORWIGSBURG, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A piece of history has been returned to its rightful owners in Schuylkill County. A medal belonging to the family of a World War I veteran came home.
Joseph William Morrison from Auburn, Schuylkill County, was a Private First Class in the Army during World War I.
During his time in the service, Morrison was held in high regard by his fellow soldiers and his commander.
"He just had boundless energy, and he was so optimistic. He was noted for his bravery to run onto the battlefield to retrieve his wounded brothers," Treasurer Stacy Garrity recalled.
He was killed in action just 10 days before the war was declared over.
His late mother, Agnes Kissick Morrison, was awarded a World War I Gold Star Mothers and Widows Pilgrimage Medal after she made a trip to her son's grave in France.
The medal was held in a safe deposit box originally owned by a family member.
It was reported as unclaimed property to the state treasury, where it remained until now.
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"It is truly my immense privilege and honor to be here with you all and return this World War I Gold Star Mothers and Widows Pilgrimage Medal to the Morrison family," Garrity said.
The medal was presented at a ceremony at the Orwigsburg Free Public Library.
Family and friends say they are grateful to be able to keep Joseph's memory alive and that they once again have a physical reminder of his sacrifice.
His great niece sharing a letter he wrote to his parents when they gave him permission to serve.
"'Father, I clearly understand the step that I am taking, and very likely, I will have to endure hardships, and in the end, receive little thanks, but someone has got to do it.' That's, really says it all in terms of who he was as a person. It's very nice to have this gold star medal returned to the family," stated Christine Morrison, great niece of Joseph William Morrison.
Joseph's family hopes to honor his legacy by continuing to share his story.
