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MARSHVILLE, N.C. – A Stanly County World War II veteran was officially honored by the Army for the first time for being a prisoner of war more than 60 years ago.

George Philemon received seven military honors Saturday night.

During the Battle of the Bulge, the 83-year-old from Oakboro, N.C., was sent in to assist in a valley. His 1,500-soldier unit was trapped and under siege for days. Only one-fifth of his group survived.

"For seven days, 24 hours a day, George's company was under fire," retired Sgt. John Brewer, with the Veterans Council, said.

Once the enemy fire ended, Philemon was captured and spent months in a prison camp.

"In 90 days in that prison camp, George Philemon lost 50 pounds," Brewer said.

Once he was liberated from the camp by American troops, he didn't tell superior officers of his service – he just wanted to get home.

"They wanted that truck to go. So they came home and everyone of them kept their mouth quiet," Brewer said.

But that changed recently, when Philemon told his story to Brewer, who got the ball rolling with the military.

"How can you a be a prisoner of war and not have any medals?" Brewer said. "So, it started clicking we needed to do something."

Fitting, on the 65th anniversary of D-Day, Philemon received the seven awards he'd been due for more than six decades.

"It's a pleasure to look at all of you, I appreciate you coming, and for your support. Thank you again," Philemon said.