[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 11 (Wednesday, January 26, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E132]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MELVIN E. ZIEGLER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 26, 2011

  Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Melvin E. 
Ziegler, who soon is to receive the World War II Bronze Star Medal. 
This prestigious award is given to those in the United States Army 
distinguished as heroic or meritorious during their service fighting 
against an enemy of the United States.
  Mr. Ziegler fought in the 88th Infantry Division during World War II 
in Italy. He previously was honored with the Purple Heart and the 
Combat Infantryman Badge. Unbeknownst to Mr. Ziegler, he was awarded 
The Bronze Star Medal; however, it was never awarded or issued to him. 
Melvin recently received a letter from the Department of the Army 
informing him of this honor. I am pleased to say that after 65 years, 
Melvin E. Ziegler will receive the medal he so greatly deserves.
  During World War II, Private Ziegler was part of the force driving 
the Nazis from North Italy. Melvin was shot by a German machine gunner. 
The bullet was stopped from going through his chest by a New Testament 
Bible that he held in his chest pocket. Mr. Ziegler stated that he 
frequently did not read the Bible at the time, but since that fateful 
day, he reads it often.
  Melvin currently lives in Owensville, Missouri, with his wife of over 
60 years, Iola. He will be presented the medal on Sunday, January 30, 
2011, at his church of 20 years, the Salem Full Gospel Church in Salem, 
Missouri. Surrounded by his family, friends, and congregation members, 
Melvin E. Ziegler will finally receive the Bronze Star Medal for his 
service and heroism.
  In closing, Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in 
honoring Melvin E. Ziegler for this celebrated award and thank him for 
his service to this great country.

                          ____________________