[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 9, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1353]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO COMPANY B, 202D ENGINEER COMBAT BATTALLION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT E. LATTA

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 2009

  Mr. LATTA. Madam Speaker, it is with a great deal of pride that I 
rise to pay a very special tribute to a brave group of men in Ohio's 
Fifth Congressional District. Company B of the 202d Engineer Combat 
Battalion is celebrating their sixty-sixth anniversary.
  Madam Speaker, there is no question the military is one of the key 
building blocks of our country. From the earliest days of our Nation's 
history, courageous men and women have fought for the freedom and 
safety of the American people. Our soldiers have opened doors for 
America's citizens and allowed our children to live in a nation that is 
peaceful and free.
  During World War II, Company B served in campaigns in Normandy, 
Central Europe, Northern France, Ardennes and the Rhineland. They were 
the only group to serve in all five campaigns and receive five battle 
stars in World War II.
  The servicemen of Company B also fought alongside the 1st, 2d, 3d, 
9th, and the 15th U.S. Army, the British 2d Army and the U.S. Navy 
throughout the war in 10 countries. One of their most significant 
contributions to the War effort was the construction of the longest 
Treadway Pontoon Bridge in the world at 1152 feet, which was built in 
less than six hours while facing enemy fire.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special 
tribute to Company B of the 202d Engineer Combat Battalion. Our 
communities are well served by having dedicated servicemen who have 
gone above and beyond the call of duty to protect our beloved Nation. 
On behalf of the people of the Fifth District of Ohio, I am proud to 
recognize this great group of men on their sixty-sixth anniversary.

                          ____________________