Recognizing the Service of Frank Smith

Floor Speech

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Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and honor the service of a great Nebraskan, Mr. Frank Smith who recently celebrated his 100th birthday. Mr. Smith (no relation) was recently recognized by the Gage County Board of Supervisors for his service to Nebraskans and our country. I am honored to have the opportunity to join my fellow Nebraskans in thanking Mr. Smith for his service.

On May 5th, he turned 100. A member of the Greatest Generation, he was born in Omaha and raised in Beatrice. He studied agriculture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and he enlisted in the Army on June 10, 1942. He served during World War II and was awarded the World War II campaign medal with three Bronze Stars and the Good Conduct medal. He was honorably discharged as a corporal. Corporal Frank Smith, USA, Retired, enlisted because he loves our great country, and his volunteerism has continued in the years following his military service.

Upon returning from tours in Africa and Italy with a heavy weapons company, he went on to work in farming, then as a prison chaplain. When asked about his patriotic dedication, he said, ``My government's important to me, although it's not always so good as it should be, but it's mine.''

At 100 years old, he continues to volunteer with Blue Rivers Area Agency on Aging, delivering meals to fellow senior citizens every day. To put it simply, his life story is extraordinary. It would be easy for someone who has done and given as much as Frank to sit back and relax, but he continues serving others.

I thank Mr. Smith for all his service and sacrifice.

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