[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 110 (Wednesday, August 1, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1483]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING MAJOR CHARLES ``CHUCK'' MONGES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 31, 2001

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of 
Major Charles ``Chuck'' Monges. Major Monges died of a massive heart 
attack at the age of 79 on July 24, 2001, in Fresno, CA.
  Major Monges joined the United States Marines Corps after graduating 
from high school in 1940. He served for nine years during and after 
World War II, earning the rank of Sergeant. In 1952, Monges joined the 
United States Army where he served in the Korean War. After eleven 
years with the Army, he retired with the rank of Major.
  Major Monges earned several distinguished awards for his service in 
the United States Military. During intense combat in World War II, 
Major Monges risked his own life by dragging a wounded soldier from the 
battlefield to safety. After his platoon came to his aid, they managed 
to annihilate the enemy. This extraordinary bravery earned him the Navy 
Cross and the Purple Heart.
  In the Korean War, Major Monges earned the Bronze Star and the 
Soldier's Medal for Bravery. Again, he dragged wounded soldiers away 
from a dangerous area, even though his own life was in danger. Once 
they were in a safe location, Monges proceeded to treat the wounds of 
the injured soldiers. Monges' actions during combat defined him as a 
true American hero.
  After his retirement from the military in 1963, Major Monges began 
his charge to establish a national museum to honor members of the 
Legion of Valor. The Legion of Valor was established in 1890 to honor 
recipients of the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross, 
and the Distinguished Service Cross. With help from other veterans and 
the Fresno City Council, Major Monges' dream became reality in 1991. 
The 10,000 square foot Legion of Valor Museum was put together by a 
staff of volunteers and is one of the most unique and inspiring 
military museums in the United States.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the memory and life of Major Chuck 
Monges. I wish to send my condolences to his family and friends.

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