[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 67 (Tuesday, May 11, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S5096]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF MACOMB COUNTY'S TRIBUTE TO PRIVATE FIRST CLASS WALTER 
                               C. WETZEL

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Macomb 
County, Michigan for its tribute to a brave World War II soldier, 
Private First Class Walter C. Wetzel. With the dedication of a bust of 
Private Wetzel at the new county administration building, Macomb County 
will recognize the selfless actions of an American war hero.
  Walter C. Wetzel entered the United States Army in Roseville, 
Michigan and served in European theater. Private Wetzel was an acting 
squad leader with the Antitank Company of the 13th Infantry in Birken, 
Germany, during the early morning hours of April 3, 1945, when he 
detected strong enemy forces moving in to attack. Private Wetzel 
alerted his comrades and immediately began defending their post against 
heavy automatic weapons fire. Under cover of darkness, the Germans 
eventually forced their way close to the American position, hurling two 
grenades into the room where Private Wetzel and others had taken up 
firing positions. Shouting a warning to his fellow soldiers, Private 
Wetzel threw himself on the grenades and absorbed their entire blast, 
suffering wounds from which he died. The supreme gallantry of Private 
Wetzel saved his comrades from death or serious injury and made it 
possible for them to continue the defense of their post. His 
unhesitating sacrifice of his life was in keeping with the highest 
traditions of bravery and heroism. Because of his actions, Private 
Wetzel was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
  Private Wetzel and his courageous deeds have considerable meaning to 
his family, and to the residents of Macomb County and the State of 
Michigan. Private Wetzel is the only person from Macomb County to 
receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. His life has been honored by 
the Michigan State Legislature and an important street in Macomb County 
was named Pfc. Walter Wetzel Drive.
  Mr. President, Private Wetzel is an example of the selfless and 
courageous commitment our soldiers display every day. I know my 
colleagues will join me in saluting Macomb County for its recognition 
of Private First Class Walter C. Wetzel and the sacrifice of the men 
and women of our Armed Services.

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