[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 35 (Tuesday, February 28, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E245]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              RECOGNIZING CAPTAIN JOHN ``GIDDY UP'' BUNCH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. FRANCIS ROONEY

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 28, 2017

  Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Captain John ``Giddy Up'' Bunch, a Southwest Floridian and a Marine 
Corps veteran who served in Vietnam. As the owner of GiddyUp Fishing 
Charters in St. James City, Florida, Captain Bunch combined his love 
for fishing with his love for our country when he invited a group of 
servicemen fishing out of gratitude for their service. This inspired 
him to dedicate his time to giving back to our veterans, which he did 
by founding Operation Open Arms.
  The organization's mission is to recruit people and businesses that 
are willing to donate their services and support to troops on leave, or 
those returning home, to give them a much-needed respite from their 
service. Since 2005, with over 300 volunteers supporting the program, 
Operation Open Arms has provided joy to over 3,000 servicemen and women 
and their families by providing services including vacations, weddings, 
fishing trips, counseling programs and funeral funds, totaling over $13 
million in benefits.
  Captain Bunch was awarded the status of Honorary Life Member of 
American Legion Post 135 in Naples, Florida, and received the 
Outstanding Civilian Service Award at the Chief of Staff of the Army 
Salute last September, further exemplifying his dedication to making 
Operation Open Arms a success. His generosity and patriotism are an 
inspiration to us all.

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