[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 24 (Monday, February 10, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E186]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE SERVICE OF MR. TROY BOWLING

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ANDY BARR

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 10, 2014

  Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding 
individual, Mr. Troy Bowling of Lexington, Kentucky. His military 
service during World War II and his continued commitment to supporting 
our veterans and the men and women in uniform is an inspiration to us 
all.
  At age 19, Mr. Bowling began his service as a United States Marine 
and was a proud member of the Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 27th 
Marines, 5th Division. During the United States' campaign to end the 
war against Japan, Mr. Bowling's unit was among the first to arrive on 
the beachheads of Iwo Jima. While attempting to secure Mt. Suribachi, 
his unit came under intense and concentrated fire, completely 
overwhelming his unit. Two projectiles struck Mr. Bowling in the chest 
and leg, leaving him critically wounded on the battlefield. At that 
moment, Mr. Bowling said he looked to the heavens and committed to 
serving mankind for the rest of his life if he survived.
  Miraculously, a combat photographer and medical team then carried Mr. 
Bowling to the safety of a landing craft where he witnessed the 
planting of the American flag atop Mt. Suribachi--an iconic image that 
persists as one of the most legendary and triumphant moments of the 
war. The U.S. Marines eventually took control of the island; however, 
this victory came at a heavy cost as over 6,800 U.S. servicemembers 
gave their lives during the battle of Iwo Jima.
  In keeping faith with his commitment to God made during that battle, 
Mr. Bowling has since devoted over 73,000 hours of volunteer service to 
others at the Lexington VA Medical Center. For over 63 years, Mr. 
Bowling has risen through the ranks within the Disabled American 
Veterans (DAV) organization, holding nearly every position possible 
including State Commander.
  The Bible teaches in Proverbs 21:21 that, ``He who pursues 
righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.'' Mr. Bowling 
has brought great honor upon himself through his dedication, 
determination, and love for serving the people of our community. 
Without a doubt, he has remained true to the commitment he made on the 
rocky terrain of Iwo Jima.
  Mr. Bowling embodies the best of America's ideals, values, and 
commitment to serving others--never abandoning the Marine motto of 
Semper Fidelis, ``Always Faithful.'' I would like to thank Mr. Bowling 
for his many years of service to our Nation and our community. He is 
truly an outstanding American and an inspiration to us all.

                          ____________________