Sarah Elfreth: “I rise today to honor Alfred Frank Bucci, whom I had the pleasure of meeting last year and who we lost just 2 months…”

“I rise today to honor Alfred Frank Bucci, whom I had the pleasure of meeting last year and who we lost just 2 months before his 103rd birthday, in Catonsville, Maryland. In World War II, Mr. Bucci served in the 99th Infantry Division during one of the war's most pivotal battles, the Battle of the Bulge. Following the victory, Mr. Bucci and his division helped liberate three POW camps and one Jewish Holocaust concentration camp. Mr. Bucci was awarded the Purple Heart for his injuries sustained during his service, and decades later, the French Government honored him with the Legion of Honor medal, France's highest military award. Mr. Bucci continued his lifetime of service by working to improve the quality of life for all veterans at the VFW Post 7472 in Ellicott City. He also told his story to students around the world in the spirit of keeping history alive. Today, we honor his sharp wit, his big heart, and his immeasurable devotion to our Nation. Mr. Speaker, he leaves behind a historic legacy and is survived by his daughter, Joyce; his son-in-law, George; his grandson; many nieces and nephews; and friends who were like family.”