[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 65 (Friday, May 1, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E643]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING MR. WILLIAM C. PHELON FOR HIS SERVICE

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                           HON. LEE M. ZELDIN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 1, 2015

  Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Corporal William 
C. Phelon, Jr. and his distinguished contributions to the United States 
Air Force. Mr. Phelon enlisted in the United States Air Force 
immediately after graduating from Mineola High School in June of 1943 
and entered active service August 16, 1943, at the height of American 
involvement in World War Two. Mr. Phelon served valiantly until he left 
the service in March of 1946. Corporal Phelon flew as part of the 
illustrious 96th Bombardment Group, serving as a Radio Operator 
Mechanic and Waist Gunner in a B-17 Flying Fortress. He was responsible 
for all radio equipment aboard the B-17 while in flight.
  In his position as Airman, Corporal Phelon participated in Operation 
Chowhound, a humanitarian mission which delivered over 11,000 tons of 
food to Nazi-occupied Holland during the Dutch Famine. This mission was 
so appreciated by the Dutch people that commemorative ceremonies have 
been held every five years in Holland to remember the men who helped 
feed their starving people. The Third Air Division of the 8th Air Force 
was responsible for delivering 4,103 tons of food, of which the 96th 
Bombardment Group dropped 366 tons. For his efforts, Corporal Phelon 
was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross by Governor Thomas Dewey on 
behalf of the people of New York.
  Sadly, Mr. Phelon passed away in December of 2014. I rise today in 
memory of a brave man who was an exemplary member of the Armed Forces 
and the community at large, and to posthumously thank him for his years 
of dedication and service. I hope we all remember the courage and 
dedication shown by Mr. Phelon in everything he did.

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