[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 125 (Friday, September 18, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING PETER ANTHONY BERRIO

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MICHAEL PAPPAS

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 18, 1998

  Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, in our daily lives, it is too often we 
overlook the true heroes who have been among us for so long. Therefore, 
when the opportunity to honor such an individual presents itself, I 
feel a special obligation. Peter Anthony Berrio of Colombia is the only 
one of his countrymen to have served in the second world war, in 
addition to being the oldest Colombian-American veteran. While he may 
be of foreign origin, Mr. Berrio fought bravely on behalf of the United 
States from 1942 through 1949, in the Pacific theater. As a Sergeant in 
the U.S. Army Air Corps, he served with uncommon valor, distinguishing 
himself as an outstanding soldier.
  While some fifty years may have passed, the chance to honor such a 
man is finally upon us. On Thursday, November 19, 1998, Mr. Berrio will 
receive his due recognition during a ceremony in the Simon Bolivar 
Salon of the offices of the Provincial Government in Quindio Armenia, 
Colombia. He will receive medals for ``Efficacy, Honor, and Fidelity,'' 
``World War Two Victory'' and the ``Insignia of Honor'' from the United 
States, as well as the ``Order of Quindio'' and the ``Knight of the 
First Order'' from Colombia. I would like to send my best wishes and 
heartfelt thanks to Mr. Berrio for his service to this Nation.

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