Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of Army Major General John C. Raaen, Jr., who dedicated his life to serving our great Nation. At 22 years old, he was captain of the Army's 5th Ranger Battalion during the Normandy invasion. General Raaen led his unit up the steep bluffs of Normandy Beach, helping liberate prisoners from Nazi concentration camps and marking the beginning of the Allied victory in World War II. His bravery and that of his fellow soldiers on D-day remain a powerful symbol of courage, unity, and the ongoing fight for a more just and peaceful world. For his heroism, he was awarded the Silver Star and went on to serve in Korea and Vietnam, rising to the rank of major general before retiring after 36 years of service. It is an honor to represent such a remarkable hero in Congress. Mr. Speaker, in 2022, Congress passed a bill to honor the brave Army Rangers of World War II with the Congressional Gold Medal, but at 103 years old, General Raaen has yet to receive this award. I urge the Speaker and my colleagues to take swift action to ensure he receives the recognition he deserves. ____________________”