[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 69 (Thursday, May 16, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S5193]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. SANTORUM (for himself, Mr. Specter, Mr. Dole, Mr. Craig, 
        Mr. Helms and Mr. Thurmond):
  S. 1770. A bill for the relief of Wayne T. Alderson; to the Committee 
on Armed Services.


                       Private Relief Legislation

  Mr. SANTORUM. Mr. President, today I am introducing a bill and 
submitting a concurrent resolution, Senate Concurrent Resolution 59, 
that are identical to legislation I introduced in the House of 
Representatives in both the 102d and 103d Congresses. As this 
particular issue remains unresolved, I again urge my colleagues' 
consideration and support.
  The legislation I introduce today is an effort to secure the 
Congressional Medal of Honor for a Pennsylvania resident, Mr. Wayne T. 
Alderson. The legislation itself speaks to the background and 
experiences of Wayne Alderson and equally to the need and merit in 
extending the Congressional Medal of Honor.
  As you can see from a review of the bill, Mr. Alderson acted 
meritoriously in the line of duty as a private in Germany during World 
War II and was recommended by his commander for a Medal of Honor. 
Unfortunately, his papers were destroyed in a fire. The Department of 
Defense has said that since the statute of limitations expired in 1952, 
and that without a statement from one of Mr. Alderson's commanders, 
they cannot award him the medal. An affidavit by Pfc. Daniel Parisi, 
which verifies that Mr. Alderson's commanders did indeed recommend him 
for the medal, was not considered by the Department as sufficient for 
them to act.
  Therefore, I am introducing legislation today that Mr. Alderson 
should receive a Medal of Honor. I am joined by several of my 
colleagues in calling for the extension of congressional recognition to 
Wayne for his service, valor, and commitment to defending our country 
in time of war and acting meritoriously in the line of duty. I 
appreciate Senators Specter, Dole, Craig, Helms, and Thurmond joining 
with me as sponsors of this legislation.
  I thank my colleagues for their attention and consideration of this 
legislation.

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