[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 9 (Wednesday, January 16, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E56]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     COMMENDING PRIVATE JOHN GILLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. VIRGINIA FOXX

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 16, 2019

  Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the sacrifice of Private John Gilley. The service and sacrifice of men 
and women like Private John Gilley are truly what makes our country 
great. Private Gilley served his country honorably in World War One, 
where he was wounded in the Battle of Courtrai. As a member of the 30th 
Division of the Army National Guard, which was attached to British 
Forces, Private Gilley took part in the campaign which resulted 
ultimately in the 30th Division breaching the Hindenburg Line to force 
the Armistice which ended the war.
  Thankfully, Private Gilley survived his wounds and was discharged in 
February of 1919. Our area, the State of North Carolina and our Country 
are fortunate that he returned to Westfield, North Carolina where he 
and his wife raised their nine children.
  While the Purple Heart was not available during World War One, 
Private Gilley was certainly eligible for it and it is fitting that it 
is being awarded to his family in his honor now. It has been my 
distinct privilege to work with Private Gilley's family to bring to 
light his sacrifice and give him the recognition he deserves. It is 
never too late to remember and honor those who have put our country's 
values above their own safety and well-being.
  I am here to commend not only Private Gilley but also to commend his 
family for their perseverance in achieving the recognition he so richly 
deserves and for continuing his model of patriotism.

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