Political Quotes

“today I wish to honor the life and legacy of a brave American, Eugene Joseph Earley. Eugene's story begins in 1884 in Watertown, MN, where he was born to Bernard and Cordelia Earley. He was one of 16 children. He grew up on his parents' farm, learning independence, grit, and an ability to fend for himself. From his parents' farm, he left to homestead and log the nearby forests in the Black River Country of Northern Koochiching County, MN. There, his determination was tested by the hot summers and long, brutal winters. Through the many challenges he faced, Eugene persevered. After the United States entered World War I, Eugene enlisted as a private in the U.S. Army 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Division. It wasn't long before he was deployed to France as a part of the American Expeditionary Forces led by General John Pershing. Under Pershing's command, Eugene prepared for battle. On September 12, 1918, in Saint-Mihiel, France, Eugene and his comrades contributed to a major turning point. The American offensive caught the Germans unaware and in the process of retreating. The courage and determination of the American forces solidified the stature of U.S. military might in the eyes of our European allies and enemies. During the second day of fighting, Eugene endured a shrapnel wound that would prove fatal. He died on the field of combat in northeast France, less than 2 months before the end of the war. Eugene was just 24 years old.…”