[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 138 (Tuesday, September 29, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S9924]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO DAVID C. PARRISH, JR.

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President. I would like to recognize a courageous 
Kentuckian, David C. Parrish, Jr., for his induction into the Kentucky 
Aviation Hall of Fame on October 17, 2009. Sixty-five years ago this 
past August, Mr. Parrish undertook brave actions during his service as 
a fighter pilot during World War II. A native of Paris, KY, Mr. Parrish 
represented the very best in courage, gallantry, and self-sacrifice in 
defense of this Nation in the skies west of Paris, France. Like many of 
America's ``greatest generation,'' Mr. Parrish was willing to disregard 
his own safety for the safety of his fellow airmen and the protection 
of his country.
  Valor and sacrifice are words that describe the nature of Mr. 
Parrish, and patience would also describe his character. Although he 
was recommended for the Silver Star in August 1944, lost records and 
bureaucratic delays meant it would take 60 years for Mr. Parrish's 
heroism to be officially recognized. It was my deep privilege to work 
with Mr. Parrish in this effort and to personally present him with his 
Silver Star in his hometown in 2004. I believe Mr. Parrish's story is a 
timely reminder of the sacrifices that so many American men and women 
have made in the name of freedom.
  Mr. President, I would like to share with you a retelling of Mr. 
Parrish's actions in defense of this Nation that earned him the Silver 
Star and his induction into the Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame. On 
August 8, 1944, 1LT David C. Parrish, Jr., was flying in the area of 
Mortain, France. His flight was part of an eight-plane squadron that 
became separated from the lead flight while on patrol. Lieutenant 
Parrish and three others were on their way home when the controller 
reported 100 enemy fighters flying above him and toward American 
bombers. His wingman had to fly home because he was low on fuel. 
Lieutenant Parrish and the remaining two fighters climbed toward the 
enemy planes.
  Lieutenant Parrish was also low on gas and would have normally 
returned to base, being so outnumbered by enemy fighters. However, 
recognizing the danger to the friendly bombers, Lieutenant Parrish dove 
his three fighters into the heart of the enemy formation. The enemy 
fighters dispersed and Lieutenant Parrish and his fellow airmen gave 
chase. Lieutenant Parrish pursued one enemy fighter at 4,000 feet and 
destroyed it. He then turned toward another enemy fighter flying at 
tree top level and eventually was able to force the enemy pilot to bail 
out. These pursuits were extremely hazardous, and even more so because 
Lieutenant Parrish was perilously low on fuel.
  It is my great pleasure to recognize Mr. Parrish for the sacrifices 
and risks he has made for this country, and I would like to 
congratulate him on his well-deserved induction in the Kentucky 
Aviation Hall of Fame. He has made Kentucky very proud.

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