Randy Fine: “today I have the extraordinary privilege of honoring Elias Sussman, a man whose life spans a century of American history…”

“today I have the extraordinary privilege of honoring Elias Sussman, a man whose life spans a century of American history and whose service continues to inspire and guide us. At 100 years young, Mr. Sussman's story began in Brooklyn, New York, where he was born on October 28, 1925. He was inducted into the U.S. Army in December 1943. Driven by dedication, he volunteered for jump school and rigger training, earning the rank of Technician Fifth Grade and becoming a vital part of the Airborne Forces. As a Member of the 17th Airborne Division, he saw heavy action, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge and participating in Operation Varsity, the mass parachute drops into Germany. His heroism reached beyond combat. After landing, his unit liberated American prisoner-of-war camps. Moving to what he thought was a nearby labor camp, he freed Jewish survivors suffering from extreme hunger, sharing every ration that he had to sustain himself. This act of profound compassion is the true hallmark of his service. Returning home after the war, he was honorably discharged in April of 1946. Mr. Sussman's journey from the streets of New York to the front lines of freedom is an enduring inspiration to us all. We thank Elias Sussman for his sacrifice, his bravery, and his incredible 100 years of life.”