“Today, we witness a justifiable award to one of our own, whose actions speak louder than words,” said St. Joseph Mayor Ken Shearin.

The Congressman epitomizes what the award stands for, said Maj. Gen. King Sidwell, Missouri’s adjutant general. Mr. Graves has provided unparalleled support for the Missouri National Guard and the armed forces of the United States, Mr. Sidwell said.

It was a bit ironic that the award was presented at the Congressman Sam Graves Reception room, said Col. Stephen Cotter, Wing commander.

Mr. Graves told the group of officers, senior enlisted personnel and guests that he was humbled to receive the medal.

Established in 1988, the Charles Dick Medal of Merit is designed to recognize the contributions to the National Guard by elected representatives to legislative bodies at the state and national levels.

The medal is named in honor of Maj. Gen. Charles Dick, president of the National Guard Association of the United States from 1902 to 1909. He also was a congressman and later a senator.