[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 59 (Friday, April 26, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E563]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING FLOYD VANDERHOEF

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILLY LONG

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 26, 2013

  Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Floyd VanDerhoef for 
his service to our nation and his honorary membership into the 12th 
Armored Division Memorial Museum's Board of Directors.
  Floyd served as a first lieutenant and captain in A Company, 56th 
Armored Infantry Battalion. Floyd's battalion was one of the first 
units in Patton's First Army to cross over the Rhine into Germany, 
where it helped liberate between 40,000-50,000 prisoners held en route 
to the Dachau concentration camp.
  Following his service, Floyd remained close with the veterans who 
served alongside him, and he was instrumental in establishing the 12th 
Armored Division Memorial Museum in Abilene, Texas. He donated his own 
memorabilia and even paid for gold stars on the museum's floor to honor 
his fallen comrades.
  It is important for all of us to take a moment and say thank you to 
our veterans like Floyd VanDerhoef who sacrificed for our country and 
our freedom. From the time of our nation's founding to today, these 
brave men and women have earned the enduring gratitude of our nation, 
and we honor their selfless service.
  I am honored to recognize Floyd VanDerhoef for his service to our 
nation and for his commitment to honor his fellow veterans.

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