[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 37 (Tuesday, February 28, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S3293]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                            LOUIS E. CURDES

 Mr. LUGAR. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
outstanding life and service of Louis E. Curdes. Mr. Curdes, who 
recently passed away at his home in Fort Wayne, IN, served his country 
with honor, and was a recognized hero of World War II.
  Mr. Curdes demonstrated his skill and valor during his first 2 weeks 
as a fighter pilot in World War II, when he shot down a total of five 
German planes to become a flying ace. Several months later, when his 
plane was damaged in fighting, he was forced down in Italy and spent 
months in war prisons, until his eventual escape and walk to freedom.
  Late in the war, Louis Curdes saw action in the South Pacific. He 
shot down aircraft from Japan and Italy, as well as Germany. Two of the 
Italian aircraft he shot down are displayed at the Smithsonian Air and 
Space Museum.
  In 1963, Mr. Curdes retired as a lieutenant colonel after 22 years of 
service in the U.S. Air Force. He earned numerous medals including the 
Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, and Air Medals. Upon his 
retirement, he began Curdes Builders Co., and devoted his life to his 
family and work in Fort Wayne, IN.
  Mr. President, it is with great respect that I call to my colleagues' 
attention the contributions Louis Curdes made to his country. He is 
truly an example and inspiration for all who follow him .


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