[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 117 (Tuesday, September 19, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1754]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING GUNNERY SGT. HAWLEY WALDRON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN E. SWEENEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 19, 2006

  Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
honor one of our Nation's true heroes, Gunnery Sgt. Hawley Waldron. A 
decorated and distinguished serviceman, Gunnery Sergeant Hawley Waldron 
was an inspiration to the men he fought with in the First World War, 
though not even those closest to him truly understood the extent of his 
valor. He was a resident of Saratoga County, and I am honored to 
represent members of the Waldron family who take great pride in 
Hawley's accomplishments.
  Hawley led a selfless life, never speaking of the numerous accolades 
he received during the war, leaving his family to discover these 
achievements only after his passing in 1961. Gunnery Sgt. Waldron 
received several awards and medals during his service including the 
silver star along with two gold stars signifying three separate awards 
for valor. He also received two Croix de Guerre decorations given by 
the government of France for his service. He was decorated following 
the battle of Belleau Wood, in which he helped the Allied forces turn 
back the German army advancing on Paris and in doing so paved the way 
for Germany's ultimate defeat.
  America's armed service men and women are held in the highest regard 
in this Nation and Hawley Waldron was one of our greatest. It is with 
great joy and respect that I commend the late Gunnery Sgt. Waldron for 
his accomplishments and the many distinguished honors he received over 
his 2 years of service in World War I. Our country is truly safer and 
honored to have had someone of the character, caliber, and courage of 
Gunnery Sgt. Hawley Waldron. I would like to offer the deepest 
gratitude on behalf of myself, the United States House of 
Representatives and all Americans for his dedication to our country.

                          ____________________