[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 159 (Thursday, November 11, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2371]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       PAYING TRIBUTE TO BERTRAM BRINGHURST ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                        HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 10, 1999

  Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to my 
constituent, the distinguished Mr. Bertram Bringhurst. Today, Mr. 
Bringhurst achieves two major milestones: the celebration of his 100th 
birthday and the award of France's highest honor, the Chevalier of the 
National Order of the Legion of Honor.
  Mr. Bringhurst was among the many bright, energetic young men who 
answered our nation's call to arms during World War One. At the tender 
age of 17 he struggled to survive the fierce battles at Chateau-Thierry 
and Argonne Forest as well as poison gas attacks. Upon returning from 
France, Mr. Bringhurst set about living his life, starting and raising 
a family and being an honorable member of his community. According to 
his family, he spoke little of his time in France. However, the 
memories that he did share, the memories of German soldiers who died 
clutching photos of their children, clearly demonstrate his compassion 
for all mankind.
  Today, Mr. Bringhurst will celebrate his 100th birthday at the Castle 
Point Veterans Hospital in Beacon, New York, surrounded by his family 
and friends. Mr. Bringhurst will also have a special guest at his 
birthday party--the French Consul will be on hand to present him with 
the French Legion of Honor in honor of his service in France in World 
War One. this is a fitting tribute to a great man.
  Mr. Speaker, I feel a debt of gratitude to Bertram Bringhurst for the 
role he has played in our nation's history. As a veteran, I take great 
pride in being associated with a man of his caliber. As an American, I 
am proud that Mr. Bringhurst will get the accolades he deserves for his 
service in France.

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