[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 13 (Friday, January 27, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E85]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        HONORING ROBERT MECHLING

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 27, 2012

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, throughout our history, at times 
appointed, this country has come face-to-face with evil. It's gone by 
different names, but it is always recognizable by its desire to blot 
out the light of freedom. Time and time again, America has seen her 
sons and daughters respond to that threat with the might, devotion, and 
strength of military service. We've seen the freedom defended within 
our boundaries, but more than this, we've come to be known the world-
over as defenders of freedom's cause at home and abroad.
  One such son, Robert Mechling, took to the call of freedom and served 
as captain in the 8th Army Air Force in World War II. His dedication to 
the mission at hand and the promise of liberty for those bound by 
tyranny's grasp has earned him deserved admiration and distinction. For 
his heroic deeds which were decisive in the liberation of France, 
especially his participation in the Normandy landings, Mechling will 
receive the National Order of the Legion of Honor.
  I rise today to honor Robert Mechling as he receives the highest 
honor given by the President of the Republic of France and thank him 
for his courage. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Mechling 
and all who served in WWII for their constant vigilance against the 
foe.