Members of the First Special Service Force, known as the "Devil's Brigade" and a precursor to today's special ops, received the Congressional Gold Medal — the highest civilian award in the U.S. — for their bravery in World War II. About 40 veterans attended the event Tuesday at the Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C. John Hankes, left, of Hastings, Minn., and D.J. Stonehouse of Ontario shook hands at the conclusion of the ceremony.