[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 136 (Friday, October 2, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1887]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO HULON B. ``ROCKY'' WHITTINGTON FOR HIS DEDICATION 
              AND SERVICE TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 2, 1998

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay a very special tribute 
to an outstanding individual from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, 
the late Hulon B. ``Rocky'' Whittington.
  Mr. Whittington, who hails from the small town of Oak Harbor, Ohio, 
in Ottawa County, lived a truly memorable life. During his life he was 
committed to the principles of duty, honor, country. Nowhere is this 
legacy more evident than in the fact that Mr. Whittington was a 
recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
  For his bravery and commitment, Mr. Whittington was presented with 
our nation's most prized and coveted military recognition. His heroism 
and patriotism are examples for each of us to live by, and his efforts 
played a key role in securing the very freedom that we, as Americans 
enjoy each and every day of our lives.
  The Congressional Medal of Honor's origin dates back to the Civil 
War, where it was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln. The 
Medal of Honor is presented to those in combat having gone ``above and 
beyond the call of duty.''
  In July of 1944, near Grimesnil, France, Sergeant Hulon B., 
Whittington, Second Armored Division, led a group of men into battle 
against an advancing German tank column. with their platton leader 
missing in action and in the face of scores of enemy troops, Sergeant 
Whittington's expert leadership and bravery resulted in the destruction 
of more than 100 German vehicles. During the battle, countless numbers 
of German soldiers were killed or taken prisoner during a bayonet 
charge that he inspired.
  Mr. Speaker, On Saturday, October 3, 1998, Sergeant Whittington will 
be recognized by members of the Oak Harbor Masonic Lodge for his 
dedication and commitment to service. He was an outstanding community 
member and a caring and devoted Mason. His efforts have been and will 
continue to be sorely missed.
  Mr. Speaker, although Sergeant Whittington passed away several years 
ago, his deeds on the battlefields of World War II and in the Oak 
Harbor community will not soon be forgotten. I would urge my colleagues 
to stand and join me in paying special tribute to a true American hero, 
Sergeant Hulon B. ``Rocky'' Whittington.

                          ____________________