[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 34 (Thursday, March 21, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E429]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PAYING TRIBUTE TO JOE JESIK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 20, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to Mr. Joe Jesik and recognize his contributions to this 
nation. A resident of Pueblo, Colorado, Joe began his service as a 
sailor during World War II when he joined the Navy and served in the 
Pacific Theatre. During his tour, Joe was stationed on the light 
cruiser USS Honolulu, which was involved in numerous engagements and 
battles throughout the South Pacific. He was recently awarded several 
decorations for his service over fifty years ago, and it is my pleasure 
to recognize his awards and service before this body of Congress and 
this nation today.
  The USS Honololu was in involved numerous engagements throughout the 
war and is credited with the sinking of a Japanese cruiser, four 
destroyers, and four enemy aircraft. Joe's exploits and service to his 
country were recently brought to light by his immediate family through 
a surprise ceremony attended by almost two hundred relatives. At the 
ceremony, Joe was presented with several long overdue decorations for 
his service to his nation during the war. Among the decorations awarded 
at the ceremony are the Navy Good Conduct Medal, the American Campaign 
Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the Navy Presidential Unit 
Citation Ribbon, the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, and the Philippine 
Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon. Thanks to his loving family of 
twelve sons and daughters, and his dedicated wife Lucille, Joe is now 
properly recognized by his nation for his service to our armed forces 
and commitment to his nation.
  Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege that I recognize Joe Jesik and 
his selfless sacrifice to this nation. Many men and women of his 
generation gave their lives long ago so that today we can enjoy the 
right and privilege of freedom. Joe Jesik served selflessly in a time 
of great need, bringing credit to himself, to his family, and a 
grateful nation. It is an honor to recognize the service of this 
veteran before this body of Congress today, as he certainly deserves 
the thanks of this grateful nation. Thanks Joe for your service, and 
good luck in your future endeavors.

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