Evan Bayh: “throughout my service to the State of Indiana, I have been honored to represent thousands of Hoosier veterans who have…”

“throughout my service to the State of Indiana, I have been honored to represent thousands of Hoosier veterans who have fought bravely for our country. It is with great honor that I recognize the sacrifices of these three courageous men, Private First Class Leo Wilson Landess, Private First Class Robert Eugene Osborn, and Private First Class John Lee Reynolds, who were called to service in World War II to safeguard American freedom. These valiant young men defended our Nation and our liberty in the face of evil, before they had a chance to receive a high school diploma. It was more than 60 years ago that these three men left Governor I.P. Gray High School and were inducted into the Army. I applaud the Jay County High School Corporation for honoring these three World War II veterans, on June 12, 2004. Their effort and unwavering commitment along with 120,000 other Hoosier World War II veterans, played a vital role in the long and difficult process of helping others enjoy freedom and democracy. By the end of the war, almost 13,000 Hoosier soldiers lost their lives. I am reminded by a quote by Douglas MacArthur, "The soldier, above all other people, prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war." I would like to express my deep appreciation for their dedicated service and the many sacrifices they made on behalf of our Nation.”