[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 5 (Tuesday, January 17, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E26]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          PHILIP D. PROVENCHER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. FRANK C. GUINTA

                            of new hampshire

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 17, 2012

  Mr. GUINTA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I 
congratulate Philip Provencher of Dunbarton, New Hampshire, on 
receiving the French Legion of Honor. It is truly a prestigious 
distinction to be appointed a Chevalier of the French Legion of Honor 
by the President of France, Nicolas Sarkozy. Throughout history, France 
has been a strong ally to the United States and it is greatly 
appreciated that they continue to recognize the heroic acts of the 
brave men and women of our Armed Forces, and for the sacrifices and 
service performed to assist the French people during World War II.
  As a member of the U.S. Army's First Infantry Division, Philip joined 
with allied forces on D-Day to help liberate France from the Germans by 
carrying a 50 lb. mortar on his back through the turbulent tides of the 
English Channel, to help support ground forces on Omaha Beach. As a 
translator for his unit, ``Frenchy'' then marched with his fellow 
soldiers through France, Belgium, and Germany. His valiant efforts 
during this campaign also earned him a Bronze Star for rescuing a 
wounded friend while under enemy fire.
  These are but a few examples of the heroic and courageous acts Mr. 
Provencher performed in service to his country during WWII and I join 
with President Sarkozy and Governor Lynch in congratulating Philip on 
this esteemed recognition. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank him 
for his dedicated service to our country.

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