World War II veteran seeks free Purple Heart license plate

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Robert Lyons, 91, of Dover, New Hampshire, served in the United States Navy during World War II. He made it through the war when many of his brothers-in-arms did not. He was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded by bombs in the 1945 Battle of Okinawa.

"Some gave it all and some gave a little," Lyons said. "I gave a little and got the Purple Heart."

Now Lyons wants to get Purple Heart-themed license plates for his car. But the state charges a $180 fee for the specialty plates.

"I don't think it's right and that's why I've been fighting this," he said. "I think it's a stupid law myself."

Free license plates are only provided to disabled veterans, according to state law. Some lawmakers said they will try to change the law in the next legislative session in January 2017.

"I want to get this straightened out before I pass away," Lyons said. "Time is running out."