Jose Luis Correa: “Today, I rise to honor the 100th birthday of my constituent, World War II veteran, Joe Juarez, a member of the Greatest…”

“Today, I rise to honor the 100th birthday of my constituent, World War II veteran, Joe Juarez, a member of the Greatest Generation. Joe was born in Fullerton, California. While growing up, his favorite sport was baseball. In 1942, Joe and his high school baseball team were on their way to the CIF championship game, but they never made it because Joe and his teammates were drafted and served in World War II. As a private first class, Joe fought in the Pacific and was awarded the Asia-Pacific Campaign Medal and a World War II Victory Medal. Joe spent 2\1/2\ years in the Pacific before returning home. Several of his teammates, including one of his brothers, never made it back. Joe and his wife, Novel, were married for 68 years and raised three children. Throughout his life, Joe has never forgotten his Band of Brothers who gave the ultimate sacrifice for this great country. Happy birthday, Joe. Happy birthday. You are a true American hero. ____________________”