[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 51 (Wednesday, April 14, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E639]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN MEMORY OF THE LATE PAUL WILLIAM TANNER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 14, 1999

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, northwest Indiana lost an outstanding 
citizen last month. Paul William Tanner, Sr., who devoted his life to 
our county, passed away on March 10, 1999.
  Throughout his life, Mr. Tanner served as an exceptional example of a 
good American. As a United States Army World War II veteran of the 
North African campaign against General Rommel, Mr. Tanner demonstrated 
the enduring qualities of loyalty, honor, devotion, and service to our 
country.
  While serving in the Armed Forces during World War II, he suffered 
shrapnel wounds and was captured by the Germans. Following his capture, 
he was forced to march to Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, from where he 
was flown to Italy, where he remained for about a month. During his 
stay in Italy, he was fed one small bowl of cabbage daily. From Italy, 
he was forced to march to various countries, including Austria and 
Germany. As a prisoner of war, Mr. Tanner was required to work on a 
farm thrashing barley, and while performing this difficult manual 
labor, he inhaled thick dust which weakened his lungs. He contracted 
tuberculosis, which led to a lifelong debilitating battle with 
bronchitis and emphysema. After gaining his freedom and returning to 
the United States, Mr. Tanner completed his college education and 
became a public school teacher. His weakened lungs forced him to take 
an early retirement and led to his eventual death at the age of 76.
  Mr. Speaker and my distinguished colleagues, I ask you to join me in 
commending Mr. Paul William Tanner, Sr., for his dedication to this 
country. His family and friends can be proud of his strong devotion and 
service to the United States. He will be missed by all who loved him.

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