[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 100 (Wednesday, July 27, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 27, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                  TRIBUTE TO THE 493D FIGHTER SQUADRON

                                 ______


                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 27, 1994

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to members of 
the 493d Fighter Squadron who fought to end World War II during the 
events that unfolded to become D-day. Over the last 50 years, the brave 
men of the 493d Squadron have continued to commemorate the cessation of 
World War II by frequently reuniting to share memories and to reminisce 
about their shared experiences.
  In May of this year, 18 members of this amazing group gathered in 
Europe to retrace the steps they took 50 years ago as American 
soldiers, marching through France, Belgium, and Germany. The 
individuals from Northwest Indiana representing the 493d Fighter 
Squadron, included: Melvin Beito, Jacob L. Cooper, Frank Kobli, Marvin 
B. Dubose, Jesse V. Jamieson, Bill Dilley, Bill Kennedy, Al Long, R.E. 
McLuckie, Raymond McWilliams, Francis Mullee, George Pullis, Warren 
Sorensen, William Wells, Warren Welter, Lloyd White, David Wright, and 
Bertil Munson.
  As the group advanced through the countryside they remembered so 
well, the great sacrifices made by those at D-day remained evident. A 
squadron member recalled fondly a conversation he held with a WWII 
German Pilot during a commemorative dinner in Germany: ``50 years ago 
we fought as enemies and today, as a result of this new found freedom, 
we dine together as friends.'' Clearly, the world is a better place 
today as a result of the horrors endured by these brave men on D-day 
and throughout WWII.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in saluting the 
men of the 493d Fighter Squadron. Their courage will most certainly be 
remembered nationally and internationally, as their contributions have 
made our country the place it is today. It is my hope that this fine 
group will continue to reunite to retain the memories of their fight 
for freedom.

                          ____________________