Thomas Foley: “I rise today to recognize a heroic American that winters in my district and lives in Muskegon, Michigan. George Olson, a…”

“I rise today to recognize a heroic American that winters in my district and lives in Muskegon, Michigan. George Olson, a World War II veteran, has traveled here with his family to visit the long-overdue memorial dedicated to veterans of the greatest generation. Sergeant Olson served in the European theater in the U.S. Army Air Force as a tail gunner in a B-17. His plane was shot down, he was held a prisoner of war for some 11 months. Mr. Olson was awarded the Purple Heart, among other commendations. The sacrifice of those like Sergeant Olson ensured we could live in a free society as we do today, and they deserve every bit of gratitude we can offer. Like so many silent heroes of his generation, Mr. Olson returned home, married his sweetheart, Rose, and they had three children, Stuart, Garry and Lisa. Also with us today are his grandchildren, Katherine, Ryan and Kyle, Doug, Becky, Charlotte, Kelly, Jack, Nina, Kelly and Ken are also in the Chamber. Mr. Speaker, I hope you will join me in acknowledging a great American, George Olson, today and wish him and his family well as they continue their visit to Washington, DC. The sacrifices of his generation ensured we could live in a free society as we do today, and they certainly deserve every bit of gratitude we can offer. ____________________”