Wishing World War II Veteran Robert Bohyer A Very Happy 100th Birthday

Floor Speech

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Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate and wish a very happy and special 100th birthday to World War II veteran Robert Bohyer.

Robert embodies what it means to be a member of the ``Greatest Generation.'' When the forces of fascism threatened the peace, security, and freedom of millions upon millions, Robert answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Army Air Corps--which later became the Air Force--when he was only 18 years old.

As a B-17 tail gunner, Robert was assigned to the 486th Bombardment Group near Sudbury, England and then later to the 483rd Bombardment Group in Italy. All told, Robert flew 35 missions from England and Italy, and he faced down mortal danger with the kind of heroic courage and valor that we desperately need more of today. Robert succinctly captured the danger he confronted by saying ``We were shot up but never shot down.'' Robert distinguished himself in service, and he has the medals and citations to prove it.

President Ronald Reagan reminded us that freedom is fragile and must constantly be fought for and guarded by each generation. That noble mission is exactly what Robert helped carry out when he wore the uniform of the United States Military. Because of the service and sacrifice of veterans, generations of Americans have been able to experience the blessings of liberty and live in a land that is free. For that, all of us owe Robert and his fellow veterans a debt that we can never fully repay.

As Robert celebrates a century of life lived to the fullest, I join his family and countless Hoosiers in wishing Robert Bohyer a very Happy 100th Birthday. I commend him for his loyal service to our Nation in uniform and the many great contributions he has made to our country. May God bless Robert.

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