On the recordSeptember 25, 2024
Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Staff Sergeant Ralph H. Bode, from Racine, Wisconsin. On September 27, 1944, Staff Sergeant Bode's aircraft was shot down over the skies of Kassel, Germany. After the crash, three crewmembers were taken prisoner. Staff Sergeant Bode was not among them. He was declared missing in action. At the time, Staff Sergeant Bode was 20 years old, serving as a World War II tail gunner. He played a vital role in the bombing mission aimed at disrupting Nazi operations over Kassel, Germany. For 80 years, no one knew what actually happened to Staff Sergeant Bode, but recently, his remains were identified. This Friday, 80 years to the day of his last mission, he will be returning home to Racine, Wisconsin. Madam Speaker, I welcome home Staff Sergeant Bode. We are a nation forever grateful for those who gave their lives defending our freedoms. ____________________
