[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 130 (Monday, October 7, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1769]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                SALUTE TO BRIGADIER GENERAL JOSEPH FOSS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DAVID DREIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 7, 2002

  Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, in recent months we have been continually 
reminded of America's heroes both here at home and abroad. The 
sacrifices of these men and women have been recognized by a very 
grateful country and will never be forgotten. These newly discovered 
American heroes hail from a long tradition of men and women who have 
selflessly given themselves to this great Nation.
  Brigadier General Joseph Foss exemplifies this American tradition and 
is a model of unselfish service and sacrifice. As an 11-year-old farm 
boy from South Dakota, Joe was inspired to fly by an encounter with 
Charles Lindbergh at a rural airport near Sioux Falls. This desire 
fueled the fire of a man who, during World War II, became one of 
America's leading Marine Aces with 26 confirmed and 16 probable kills 
in the fight for Guadalcanal. In May 1943, General Foss received 
America's highest honor, the Congressional Medal of Honor, for 
outstanding heroism above and beyond the call of duty.
  Upon his return home from the war, General Foss served in public 
office as a member of the South Dakota State House and was 
overwhelmingly elected to two terms as Governor. We have also been 
blessed by his contributions as President of the National Society of 
Crippled Children and Adults and the National Rifle Association. Joe 
Foss also served as the first Commissioner of the American Football 
League, where his work led to the birth of one of America's favorite 
sporting events--the Super Bowl.
  Such a lifetime of selfless action speaks for itself. However, 
General Foss is not yet finished. Along with the Foss Institute, he has 
taken on a new task, leading senior veterans in a campaign to educate 
our country's youth in military history and the true meaning of 
patriotism. At 87 years young, this great American is continuing to 
serve his country in very valuable ways. I ask that the Congress join 
me in honoring one of America's most appreciated and loved heroes, 
Brigadier General Joseph Jacob Foss.

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