Recognizing John J. Day, Jr. and His Nomination for the French Legion of Honor

Floor Speech

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Mr. BALDERSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and achievements of John J. Day, Jr., in honor of his nomination and confirmation of France's highest distinction of military and civil merits, the French Legion of Honor.

In October of 1942, during the height of World War II, John answered his nation's call and joined the United States Army as a member of the 90th Infantry Division, a regiment that later earned the title of ``Tough Hombres.'' Deployed to Europe two years later, the Tough Hombres arrived on English soil on Easter Sunday, 1944. Soon after their arrival, John, along with his regiment, boarded a ship for Normandy. At the young age of 21, John courageously defended his country two days after D-Day in the Battle of the Seves River. Taken off the front line on July 22, 1944, John completed his assignment at a Postal Unit in Avon, France. John was finally discharged from the Army in November 1945, six months after World War II ended.

John returned to civilian life and to his work with the Pennsylvania Central Railroad system in New York. Following his retirement, John and his late wife, Mary Ann, enjoyed traveling across the country, visiting children and grandchildren. John currently resides in Galena, Ohio, where he is an active member of the Westerville Chapter of the VFW.

A decorated veteran, John has been awarded numerous awards such as the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, and the Combat Infantry Badge, just to name a few. The French Legion of Honor adds to the extensive list of awards and recognitions John received throughout his distinguished career, though it does not scratch the surface of the number of reasons we owe a debt of gratitude to John for his service to our country.

Consul General of France will officially present John with his medal on October 8 in Westerville, Ohio. I am confident that John's impact will be an enduring one, and that this ceremony will be cherished by his family and friends. I thank John for his service, and I am proud to join in recognizing John J. Day, Jr., as he receives this distinguished and well-deserved honor.

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