Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Lieutenant Malcolm A. Champagne, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient who passed away in December. As a true patriot, he told his parents on December 17, 1942: ``The country is in trouble. I need to go.'' He then commissioned into the Army Air Forces. He served as a member of the Eighth Air Force, which was activated in Savannah, Georgia, in January 1942. The Eighth Air Force, commonly referred to as ``The Mighty Eighth,'' is regarded as one of the greatest air forces in history. On October 14, 1943, the day known as Black Thursday, Lieutenant Champagne's B-17 bomber was attacked and plummeted from the sky. He was captured by the Nazis, but despite injuries, malnutrition, and psychological distress, his spirit remained unbroken. On April 29, 1945, he was liberated after 18 months in captivity. In 2023, 80 years after his service in World War II, Lieutenant Champagne was awarded a Purple Heart at the age of 102. Malcolm Champagne's legacy of bravery, patriotism, and strength will continue to inspire generations of Americans. ____________________”