[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 118 (Thursday, July 13, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E976]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF FRANK BARTLETT

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                           HON. CHARLIE CRIST

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 13, 2017

  Mr. CRIST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
accomplishments of one of the greatest of our generation, World War II 
veteran Frank Bartlett, who left us last week at the ripe old age of 
104.
  Serving as a surgical technician for the Ninth Infantry Division, 
Frank was a hero, awarded six bronze stars, one silver star, and an 
American Defense Service Medal for his dedication to saving lives on 
the battlefield.
  During World War II, Frank served in the European theater, providing 
life-saving medical care to his fellow servicemen in North Africa, 
Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. As a surgical technician, Frank 
followed his brothers into battle, serving at their side so they might 
withstand the attacks of the enemy. On D-Day, Frank was one of the only 
surviving medics of the Battle of Normandy, risking his life to aid his 
fallen brothers in the face of incredible peril. His efforts went above 
and beyond--Frank would often offer his own blood for a patient's blood 
transfusion in times of need. A talented and tireless surgeon, Mr. 
Bartlett's courage and humility earned him the respect and gratitude of 
his commanding officers and his fellow soldiers.
  Before joining the Army, Frank worked as a hair stylist in New York, 
a profession he returned to after completing his military service. 
Following his move to Pinellas County, Florida, Mr. Bartlett channeled 
his talent as an artist into opening his own kite shop, sharing the 
fruits of his creativity with the community he loved. Even after being 
declared legally blind, Frank's tenacious spirit drove him forward, 
running his small business, and hiking the mountains of Peru.
  Mr. Speaker, at the incredible age of 104 years, Frank Bartlett 
passed away on July 8, 2017. He will be honored and laid to rest at Bay 
Pines National Cemetery. Supported by his loving friends, Frank lived 
out his final days in peace. Please join me in offering the deepest 
gratitude to Frank for his service to our country, his commitment to 
his brothers-in-arms, and his ceaseless dedication to his friends and 
community.

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