[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 159 (Thursday, November 11, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2347]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO LOYD WELCH

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                        HON. SUE WILKINS MYRICK

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 10, 1999

  Mrs. MYRICK. Mr. Speaker, on the eve of Veterans Day, I rise to bring 
to the attention of the House the extraordinary accomplishments of Loyd 
Welch. Mr. Welch, a recipient of the Silver Star, deserves recognition 
for his valiant bravery on behalf of the American people while a member 
of our Armed Forces. I am proud to represent Mr. Welch in Congress.
  Loyd Welch, now 74, fought in the 36th Infantry Division as a machine 
gunner during World War II. In October of 1944, German forces began an 
attack on his group. Throughout the onslaught, Mr. Welch held his 
position, firing his machine gun until it finally overheated. However, 
his determination did not diminish when his weapon failed. Instead, Mr. 
Welch lobbed hand grenades at the enemy, wounding at least 25 German 
troops. In the end, he allowed his company to complete its mission by 
his actions.
  Mr. Loyd Welch is an outstanding and inspirational individual. His 
bravery and courage during this operation and throughout his service to 
our country is admirable and should be commended.

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