OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Paul Kerchum

Floor Speech

Date: Jan. 18, 2024
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the legacy of Paul Kerchum. At the time of his death, Mr. Kerchum was one of the last survivors of the Bataan Death March.

Paul enlisted in the military in 1938, beginning a 29-year military career. In 1942, Paul was taken as a POW in the Philippines and forced to march for 65 miles in what is now known as the Bataan Death March.

Following his retirement in 1966, he and his wife, Gloria, made Arizona their home. For Paul, civilian life included hours of community service and impactful public speaking, sharing his story of bravery and courage.

Later this month, the Benson Municipal Airport will be renamed in Paul's honor.

Mr. Speaker, while we will never be able to fully express our gratitude for Paul's service, we hope this serves as a small token of appreciation.

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