[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 34 (Thursday, March 21, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E439]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO JOHN ``JACK'' DELMAGE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DOUG OSE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 20, 2002

  Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, 
Private First Class John ``Jack'' Delmage, who served our nation in 
combat during World War II. Born March 24, 1919, Jack Delmage was 22 
when he volunteered to join the Army as our nation joined the war. This 
week, more than 50 years later, Jack will finally receive full 
recognition for his service.
  Jack Delmage joined the elite 551st Parachute Infantry Battalion 
where he earned his Parachutist Badge, known as ``Jump'' Wings. The 
551st has an illustrious record of achievements, including the Army's 
first daylight combat jump and the capture of the first German general. 
During his early missions, Jack earned the Combat Parachutist Badge 
with Bronze Star and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. As a result of his 
actions on August 15, 1944 in Operation Anvil Dragoon, Jack earned the 
French Croix de Guerre Medal with Silver-Gilt Star, awarded by the 
President of France to the 551st Infantry Battalion for the magnificent 
bravery displayed in the capture of Draguignan. In addition, the 
Kingdom of Belgium awarded the 551st a commemorative ribbon for their 
efforts.
  During his distinguished military service in World War II, Jack 
Delmage earned a number of service medals, including: the Bronze Star, 
the Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the American Campaign 
medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the World 
War II Victory Medal, and most recently, the Presidential Unit Citation 
for extraordinary heroism displayed during the Battle of the Bulge.
  Through an unfortunate misunderstanding, his comrades believed Jack 
was killed in action during the Battle of the Bulge, and as a result, 
Jack never received these service medals. I am proud to join Jack 
Delmage this Saturday, March 23, 2002, in a ceremony to receive the 
medals and recognition he has earned and deserves.