[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1188]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


     IN HONOR OF FRANCIS ``BOB'' GALANTE OF BROCKTON, MASSACHUSETTS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. STEPHEN F. LYNCH

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 18, 2009

  Mr. LYNCH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Francis Galante, 
in recognition of his bravery, sacrifice and service to the United 
States of America.
  Francis is the son of Teresa (Ferrante) and Carl Galante who 
emigrated from Frigento, Italy. He was born on August 28, 1916 in 
Brockton, Massachusetts, and lived in West Bridgewater with his aunt 
and uncle through the Depression.
  He graduated from Brockton High School, married Diana Ferrini in 
1939, enlisted in the United States Reserves, and was then drafted into 
the United States Army. He was deployed overseas and stationed in 
Africa, leaving his wife and ten-month-old daughter.
  Francis was later shipped to Salerno, Italy, with the 34th Infantry 
nicknamed the Red Bull Division. He served as a ranger behind enemy 
lines. He was hit with shrapnel in Leghorn, Italy, wounding both of his 
legs and his head. He crawled for days to get back to base in order to 
receive medical treatment. He received the Purple Heart while in the 
hospital August 9, 1945.
  After being hospitalized in Italy, Atlantic City, and Framingham, 
Massachusetts, he was discharged August 9, 1945, VJ Day, and returned 
home to Brockton. He then drove an Eastern Mass bus and also worked for 
his father-in-law's bakery, Superior Bakery, making over 200 deliveries 
in one day. Later, he was an important part of the creation of the 
cabinet company, Wood-Hu Kitchens, in Brockton, later becoming 
President. He retired from Wood-Hu Kitchens in August, 1981.
  Francis was a star athlete, held records in track, and was also a 
professional gymnast performing in many Brockton clubs. He was a member 
of the YMCA since he was eight years old and was the longest standing 
member of the YMCA until his recent illness. He was a member of the 
Thorny Lea Golf Club in Brockton for over forty years.
  Madam Speaker, Francis had many passions in life, the most important 
being family. He was married at the age of twenty-three to the love of 
his life, the late Diana. He was the proud parent of two children, four 
grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Francis was known for his 
amazing health and vigor at the age of 92. He always had the ability to 
make people laugh while poking fun at the same time. Francis is 
remembered and admired by his family and many friends.
  Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take the floor of the House 
today to join with Francis Galante's family, friends, and 
contemporaries to thank him for his remarkable service to his community 
of Brockton and to the United States of America.

                          ____________________