[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 117 (Monday, September 9, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING MAJOR ROBERT S. SWENSON, USAFR, RETIRED

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 9, 2013

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate and 
recognize Major Robert S. Swenson, USAFR, Retired. Major Swenson, a 
World War II veteran who did not receive his Bronze Star Medal for his 
bravery during the Varsity Operation in 1945, received his medal on 
August 10, 2013 at the Trigger Time Convention in the City of SeaTac, 
Washington.
  In 1945, as a glider pilot in the 435th Troop Carrier Group, 75th 
Squadron, Major Swenson and his fellow airmen distinguished themselves 
when enemy infantry mounted a counter attack. The 435th Troop Carrier 
Group fought and repelled the attack of approximately 200 enemy 
soldiers, a tank, a self-propelled artillery, and two 20mm flak guns.
  After the battle, a request was made by Major Charles 0. Gordon that 
all members of the 435th Troop Carrier Group be given due recognition. 
However, at the end of the war, the order was lost and went 
unfulfilled. The records have since been conserved at the Silent Wings 
Museum Archives and Major General Kenneth Dahl, Deputy Commanding 
General, I Corps at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, will formally present the 
Bronze Star Medal to Major Swenson at the convention.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I recognize Major Robert S. 
Swenson, USAFR, Retired, for his fearlessness and dedication to serving 
his country.

                          ____________________