Recognizing Mr. Emilio Lena

Floor Speech

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Mr. JAMES. Mr. Speaker, while we often recognize noteworthy and acclaimed personalities, we have many other great unsung heroes and amazing souls who do a ton of heavy lifting with little to no recognition. Yet, if truth be told, they serve as the glue, sturdiness, strength, and all that is good about America. They go about their jobs quietly, without having the expectation of recognition. In fact, they do what they do because it's God's work. It's the right thing to do.

I am privileged to be in a position where I can acknowledge one such unsung hero, and his service to our country during the Korean War, Mr. Emilio Lena. Mr. Lena was born in Cassino, Italy on September 10, 1925. He immigrated to the United States on February 1, 1947, not knowing any English but wanting a better life for himself in pursuit of the ``American Dream.''

He enlisted in the U.S. Army on October 23, 1952, to serve his new, beloved country and was trained as an artilleryman. He learned to read and write English in the Army and obtained his U.S. citizenship. He was honorably discharged as a Private First Class on October 4, 1954. While in service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal. He cherished his time in the military and was a proud veteran his entire life.

He settled back in the greater Detroit area upon his return from service where he married the love of his life, Elena, and raised five children. He never returned to Italy due to his allegiance to his U.S. citizenship.

We thank him for his service and contribution to his country.

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