[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 159 (Thursday, November 11, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2353]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                         TRIBUTE TO MACK DRAKE

                                 ______
                                 

                        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 Mack 
Drake. Mr. Drake, 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. Drake in Congress.
  Mack Drake, now 74, was a soldier defending freedom in the Pacific 
during World War II. One night during the invasion of Guam, the 
Japanese military engaged in a counterattack that wounded Mr. Drake and 
others, and left many killed. Despite his face and arm injuries, Mr. 
Drake refused to evacuate the area and stood his ground on behalf of 
the United States. Mack Drake continued to fire until his ammunition 
was depleted, all the while protecting the right flank of his platoon. 
Even upon the realization that he had no bullets left, Mr. Drake 
continued the fight by using grenades to defend his troop. Because of 
Mack Drake's unflappable bravery, lives were saved and a massacre was 
averted.
  Mr. Mack Drake 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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