[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 78 (Wednesday, May 20, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E755]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING ARMY PRIVATE HENRY JOHNSON AND ARMY SERGEANT WILLIAM SHEMIN

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                            HON. JOHN KATKO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 20, 2015

  Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the brave service of 
Army Private Henry Johnson and Army Sergeant William Shemin. Army 
Private Henry Johnson and Army Sergeant William Shemin valiantly fought 
to defend our nation during World War I.
   Army Private Henry Johnson entered the Army on June 5, 1917. He 
served in Company C, the 15th New York Infantry Regiment, an all-black 
National Guard unit. In 1918, Army Private Henry Johnson's unit, then 
the 369th Infantry Regiment, was ordered into battle in France and 
fought in front-line combat. Army Private Johnson courageously risked 
his life to defend those of his fellow soldiers.
   Army Sergeant William Shemin entered the Army on October 2, 1917. He 
served as a member of Company G, 2nd Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, 
4th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, originally located in 
Syracuse, New York. In May of 1918, Army Sergeant Shemin arrived in 
France to fight as a rifleman within his platoon. Army Sergeant Shemin 
not only put himself in danger to rescue his wounded fellow soldiers, 
but also took command of his platoon following the death of his 
superior officers.
   Army Private Henry Johnson and Army Sergeant William Shemin proudly 
served and represented New York and our entire nation. Nearly 100 years 
after their service, Army Private Henry Johnson and Army Sergeant 
William Shemin will be awarded the Medal of Honor by President Obama on 
June 2nd. It is a privilege to share in the recognition of these 
American heroes, Army Private Henry Johnson and Army Sergeant William 
Shemin.

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