On the recordJune 4, 2019
Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Gerald Gwaltney. An Alexander County native, Sergeant Gwaltney was sent on four major landings in the Pacific during World War II, including Iwo Jima, where he witnessed the iconic American flag raising there. In the line of duty, Sergeant Gwaltney sacrificed himself for his men, costing him the use of his right hand. Even after brushing with death and experiencing the horrors of combat, this selfless patriot said he would do it all over again. This year, President Trump signed a law directing the Secretary of Defense to conduct a commemorative program for the 75th anniversary of World War II. It is important to take such opportunities like this week's commemoration of the 75th anniversary of D-day to highlight heroes like Sergeant Gwaltney and remember the brave Americans who fought and died for our country in World War II to preserve our freedom. ____________________
