Political Quotes

“In just a couple of weeks, on October 23, a memorial will be erected by villagers and family member at Suhozem, Bulgaria to honor one of our Nation's brave soldiers and one of Oregon's native sons, Lt. Kingsley. Today, I wish to take a few minutes to remember Lt. Kingsley and share his story of great courage and sacrifice. The story of Lt. David Kingsley is emblematic of the strength and pioneering spirit of the earliest Oregonians. Lt. Kingsley was born and raised in Portland, OR and graduated from Benson High School. Prior to enlisting in the Air Force, he worked in the disaster unit of the Portland Fire Bureau--always committed to the service of his community and country. During the Second World War, he went to pilot training, and then served as a bombardier in a B-17F. He was assigned to the 341st Bomb Squadron, 97th Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force. On June 23, 1944, he was on Mission No. 295, flying out of Amendola airfield in Foggia, Italy against the Dacia Oil Refinery in Ploesti, Romania. While on the bombing run, the right wing of his aircraft was hit by enemy fire. His aircraft took 15 strikes, crippling it as it flew over Bulgaria. The attack injured several members of the aircrew, including the tail-gunner. Lt. Kingsley had to remove the tail-gunner's damaged parachute to provide first-aid. An order to bailout was given; the Lieutenant gave his parachute to the injured tail-gunner and reminded him to pull the ripcord.”