[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 138 (Saturday, October 28, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1982]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO SPECIALIST FOUR DON LESLIE MICHAEL OF LEXINGTON, ALABAMA

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                    HON. ROBERT E. (BUD) CRAMER, JR.

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 27, 2000

  Mr. CRAMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of 
Alabama's true heroes, Specialist Four Don Leslie Michael. Michael's 
life was one of service to his country and brave sacrifice. I honor him 
today on the occasion of his induction into the Alabama Military Hall 
of Honor.
  Michael's family recently attended the induction ceremony at the Hall 
of Honor located in Marion, Alabama. Michael, 1 of 13 members asked to 
join this elite Hall, was born in Florence and soon moved to Lexington 
where he grew up with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy O. Michael, now 
deceased. The Alabama Military Hall of Honor is described as ``a 
permanent and visible tribute to Alabamians who have distinguished 
themselves in the Armed Services of their country. It serves as a 
constant testimony to present and future generations that patriotism 
and heroism are not forgotten, but ever serve as challenges for those 
who are yet to come.''
  Michael's distinction with the Alabama Military Hall of Honor brings 
additional honor to his memory. In May of 1969, President Nixon handed 
the Congressional Medal of Honor awarded to Michael to his family at a 
White House ceremony. While in the Army 173rd Airborne Brigade, Michael 
sacrificed his life in service of this nation. During a conflict in 
Vietnam on April 8, 1967, Michael put himself on the line to throw six 
grenades. He was successful in destroying the enemy positions, yet he 
was mortally wounded in the effort. Michael's award citation reads 
``His inspiring display of determination and courage saved the lives of 
many of his comrades and successfully eliminated a destructive enemy 
force. Specialist four Michael's actions were in keeping with the 
highest traditions of the military service and reflect the utmost 
credit upon himself and the U.S. Army.''
  Michael, the only Congressional Medal of Honor winner in northwest 
Alabama, has gone unrecognized long enough. I am pleased that his 
induction into the Alabama Military Hall of Honor will ensure that the 
example of his life and his unceasing dedication to the United States 
and its democracy can be an inspiration for our state for years to 
come. On behalf of the United States Congress and the people of North 
Alabama. I want to express my outstanding respect and admiration for 
Specialist Four Michael. I know that his family is deeply proud of his 
legacy and I share my joy with them that his life and memory are being 
properly recognized.

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