The Chattanooga Area Veterans Council honored retired Four Star General B.B Bell with its top award at its 32nd annual awards program on Friday night at the Convention Center.
The award was presented by Hamilton County Historian Linda Moss Mines.
This video of the awards program was recorded by retired broadcaster Ben Cagle.
General Bell served for 39 years in the United State Army including NATO and Desert Storm. The General was recognized for his support of Vietnam veteran Larry Taylor whose nomination for the Congressional Medal of Honor was held in limbo for 55 years.
Mrs. Mines said, “General B.B. Bell stepped forward and championed Cpt. Taylor's heroic action in saving four lives.”
She said, "On behalf of the Chattanooga Area Veterans Council it’s my honor to present this award to General B.B. Bell."
In accepting the award, an emotional General Bell said, “I am deeply touched in receiving this award."
The Coolidge Veteran of the year award went to Col. Bill Brooks and the outstanding service to Veterans award went to Stacy Kehoe.
Linda Moss Mines and General B.B. Bell