[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 29 (Thursday, February 15, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E354]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                PAYING TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM DEAN WHITAKER

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                           HON. JON C. PORTER

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 14, 2007

  Mr. PORTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor William Dean 
Whitaker, a veteran of World War II, for his exemplary service in 
defense of freedom and award him with the Jubilee of Liberty Medal.
  On June 6, 1944, the United States and its allies embarked on the 
largest air, land, and sea invasion ever undertaken. This massive 
effort included 5,000 ships, 10,000 airplanes, and over 150,000 
American, British, Canadian, Free French, and Polish Troops. During the 
50th anniversary of this historic event, the French Government awarded 
the Jubilee of Liberty Medal to American servicemen for their 
participation in the Battle of Normandy.
  William served in the United States Army Air Corps, 603rd Bomb 
Squadron, 398th Bomb Group as a Bombardier and Navigator and served in 
Normandy, Northern France and the Rhineland. On October 15, 1944, his 
B-17 was shot down over Merseburg, Germany; while parachuting to earth, 
he received hostile fire and was captured and held as a prisoner of war 
for 7 months. For his heroism and valor, William was awarded the 
European African Middle Eastern Campaign Service Medal, and the Air 
Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters.
  In 2004, during a POW/MIA ceremony held at Nellis Air Force Base, 
Nevada, William finally received the Purple Heart for his injuries and 
sacrifices while a Prisoner of War during World War II.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor William Whitaker for his heroic 
service in the United States Military. His dedication to this country 
in the theater of war is truly exemplary. I commend the sacrifices he 
has made to protect our freedoms and I am pleased to have the 
opportunity to recognize his service. I applaud William Whitaker for 
his successes and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.

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