Recognizing Clifford Strickland

Floor Speech

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Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Technician Fifth Grade Clifford Strickland of Fowler, Colorado, a fallen World War II soldier considered missing in action until December of 2023.

Clifford was a U.S. Army Technician out of Charlie Company, 803rd Engineers Battalion. He was stationed in the Philippines where he was constructing vital landing strips for U.S. forces when the military of Japan attacked the islands. Clifford and his fellow soldiers bravely defended the island for several months before he was captured in April of 1942, forced into the agonizing Bataan Death March, and taken to Cabanatuan Prison Camp where he died months later. After he was buried, it took 81 years to identify Clifford's remains.

In service of his country, Clifford made the ultimate sacrifice and we are eternally grateful for his courage in the line of duty. On June 29, 2024, Clifford will finally return home where he will be buried surrounded by family and loved ones in Florence, Colorado.

On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Clifford's service and sacrifice. We are thankful to have him home after all these years.

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