Political Quotes

“I wish to honor and congratulate Colonel Joseph Peterburs, a decorated veteran in Placer County, on his 100th birthday. The great American Founding Father, Benjamin Franklin, wrote: ``Freedom is not a gift bestowed upon us by other men but is a right that belongs to us by the laws of God and nature.'' The life and actions of Colonel Peterburs not only illustrates the longing for freedom but the dedication of service and sacrifice required to maintain it. Colonel Peterburs began his service to the defense of the United States as a pilot in World War II. During his deployment in Europe, he was tasked with escorting B-17 bombers and protecting them against enemy aircraft. During World War II, he flew an astounding 49 missions with 269 combat hours. On April 10, 1945, Colonel Peterburs had to bail out of his aircraft at 300 feet during an air battle. He was burned and injured, then captured and placed in a Nazi prisoner of war camp. Overcoming unimaginable adversity, Colonel Peterburs escaped as the camp was being evacuated by the Germans. He and other escapees temporarily joined a Russian tank unit before being reunited with American Forces. After World War II, he continued his service to the United States by contributing to the country's defense during the Cold War. Throughout this period, Colonel Peterburs served in Korea, Vietnam, and Europe.…”