Newton resident, Kenneth Densmore, finally received his Purple Heart Wednesday, 29 years after surviving a terrorist bombing in Beirut.

Barracks housing American and French members of the Multinational Force were targeted by suicide bombers in 1983.

Almost 300 American and French servicemen were killed in that attack. Hundreds more were injured, including Navy petty officer, Kenneth Densmore, of Newton, who was manning the air traffic control tower at Beirut International Airport.

Densmore finally received the recognition for his injuries and his heroism Wednesday.

A representative from Cong. Gregg Harper's office presented the long overdue Purple Heart to the retired Navy veteran.

Densmore said he refused to leave his post until his mission was complete, even though his arms had severe cuts from flying glass. But Densmore says the honor has left him virtually speechless.

"That's extremely hard to explain," said Densmore. "You feel like an obstacle has been overcome that was missing in your life."

"So overwhelming with pride, joy," said Charlotte Densmore, Kenneth's wife. "Not only have I ended up married to a hero, but he has gotten the medal so deserved and past due."

The Densmores say this a day they've waited on for a long time and one they'll never forget.

The Purple Heart is one of the most prestigious military awards, earned by soldiers wounded or killed in the line of duty.