Political Quotes

“I rise today to honor the sacrifice of S2C David Joseph Riley who lost his life, along with 428 of his fellow crewmen, on December 7, 1941, while serving on the USS Oklahoma during the attack on Pearl Harbor. After over 80 years, S2C Riley's remains will finally come to Juda in Green County, WI, on May 27, 2023. Seaman Second Class Riley was born on February 18, 1916, and at the age of 11 years old became the foster son of Elmer and Della (Matzke) Asmus of Juda, WI. He attended the Juda elementary and high schools and was known for his cheerful and likable manner. In 1939, he joined the Wisconsin National Guard, and in May 1940, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After training, he was assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma. On December 7, 1941, Seaman Second Class Riley was onboard the USS Oklahoma, docked at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when it was attacked by Japanese forces. This ship was hit by multiple torpedoes, causing it to quickly flip and capsize. On December 21, 1941, Mr. and Mrs. Asmus received a telegram from the Navy, stating that Seaman Second Class Riley was missing. On February 17, 1942, 1 day before what would have been his 26th birthday, they received another telegram declaring that Seaman Second Class Riley had lost his life in service of his country. Unfortunately, his remains could not be identified at this time.…”