[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 184 (Tuesday, December 9, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2347]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE MILITARY SERVICE OF FRED STERN

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                     HON. STEPHANIE HERSETH SANDLIN

                            of south dakota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 9, 2008

  Ms. HERSETH SANDLIN. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the 
heroic and distinguished actions of Fred Stern of Aberdeen, South 
Dakota, who will be honored with several long-overdue medals, including 
the Bronze Star Medal, for his service during World War II.
  Fred was born near Webster, South Dakota, on October 21, 1908. He was 
inducted into the U.S. Army at Ft. Snelling, Minnesota, on June 10, 
1942, and received his basic training at Camp Rucker, Alabama. Fred 
served in World War II's Pacific Theater from 1942 to 1945. He was a 
member of the 322nd Regiment Combat Team of the 81st Infantry, 
Wildcats, Division in the battle for the Palau Islands.
  The 322nd participated in the famed assault on the small island of 
Anguar--a hard-fought battle against the island's Japanese occupants. 
For his dedicated service, Fred received the Good Conduct Medal, 
Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Service Star, and the 
Combat Infantry Badge. After the war, he returned to South Dakota where 
he farmed, worked for the Brown County Implement, and as a painter 
before retiring.
  Madam Speaker, I join with all South Dakotans in expressing my 
gratitude to Mr. Fred Stern and congratulate his receipt of the Bronze 
Star Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two Bronze Service 
Stars and one Bronze Arrowhead, and the Army of Occupation Medal with 
Japan Clasp.
  We are all proud and thankful for all that he has done in the service 
of the United States of America. The lives of countless people have 
been enormously enhanced by his compassion and service. Fred represents 
the best of the United States, South Dakota, and the Army. He continues 
to inspire all those who know him and hear his story of sacrifice. Our 
Nation and the State of South Dakota are far better places because of 
his service, and the best way to honor him is to emulate his devotion 
to our country.
  I join with all South Dakotans in expressing my appreciation to Fred. 
His commitment to and sacrifice for our Nation will never be forgotten.

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