[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 89 (Monday, June 15, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S6577]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                   COMMENDING THE LOTHSPEICH BROTHERS

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I want to take a moment to honor a 
North Dakota family filled with heroes. Even in a State where sacrifice 
is more than a slogan and service is a way of life, the Lothspeich 
family stands out. When their nation needed them, every single one of 
the nine Lothspeich brothers rose to answer the call to duty.
  Today we recognize the service of the three brothers who are still 
with us, and honor the memory of those who are not. In times of crisis, 
it is our best and bravest that step forward, risking it all, to come 
to the defense of our Nation. The honorable service of each of these 
nine brothers epitomizes the story of our Nation's veterans.
  Eugene was a machine gunner in Italy in the Second World War, where 
he was awarded the Purple Heart. Harold served in the Philippines, 
where he earned two battle stars. Edward served in the Pacific with the 
Navy, Donald served in Germany at the peak of the Cold War, Gerald 
worked with the atomic bomb program here in the U.S. Lyle was a rifle 
instructor helping to train the next generation of our Nation's 
servicemembers, and Spike served in the Air Force Medical Service Corps 
in Japan.
  From World War II through the Korean conflict and the Cold War, for 
15 years running, at least one of these nine men could be found in 
uniform, serving their country in the Army, in the Navy, and in the Air 
Force. It is truly a remarkable story. We owe a deep debt of gratitude 
to them and to all of our veterans.
  Years ago our forefathers founded this country with a vision of 
freedom for all. It was that vision that inspired the Lothspeich 
brothers to leave Park River, ND, to travel to Italy, Germany, Japan 
and the Philippines in defense of this great land. We honor them, and 
we honor all of our brave veterans and all of those who serve our 
country in uniform today. Without selfless service by those like the 
Lothspeichs, we simply would not have the freedoms we hold most 
dear.

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