[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 4 (Wednesday, January 8, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E16]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF JOHN COLACCHIO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ALAN GRAYSON

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 8, 2014

  Mr. GRAYSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding 
member of the Central Florida community, John Colacchio. Mr. Colacchio 
is an 89-year-old veteran of the Second World War who recently 
participated in an Honor Flight. The Honor Flight for the 2nd Infantry 
Division from World War II was a one-day event in which veterans flew 
to Washington, DC and visited the memorials to their fallen comrades. A 
native of Long Island, New York, Mr. Colacchio worked in the rail 
industry before serving our country. Following the attack on Pearl 
Harbor, Mr. Colacchio voluntarily joined our armed forces. He bravely 
fought with the Army's 2nd Infantry Division in historic battles 
including the Invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Mr. 
Colacchio served with distinction for two years and nine months 
overseas, earning a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.
  After leaving the armed services, Mr. Colacchio returned to his job 
at ATO Operations Railroad and worked there for another 34 years. In 
2008, after the passing of his beloved wife, Mr. Colacchio moved to be 
near his only child, in Celebration, Florida. His daughter, Barbara, is 
a Marine Corps veteran and served as Honor Guardian on his recent Honor 
Flight.
  Mr. Colacchio sacrificed greatly to help our country in a time of 
need. He served with dedication and bravery and has remained active in 
the veteran community. It is my pleasure to recognize his 
accomplishments and contributions to the community.

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