[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 11, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E740]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  WORLD WAR II VETERAN JOHN O'CONNER OF PAYSON, ARIZONA CLEBRATES HIS 
                             100TH BIRTHDAY

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                           HON. PAUL A. GOSAR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2019

  Mr. GOSAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II Veteran 
John O'Conner as he celebrates his 100th Birthday. John O'Conner of 
Payson, Arizona epitomizes a life dedicated to serving others and 
defending our country.
  John was born on June 11, 1919 in Branford, Pennsylvania. He attended 
the University of Buffalo in Buffalo, New York. During this time, he 
met and married his wife of 54 years, Velma. After such a joyous and 
momentous occasion, his country called for him to serve as socialism 
spread throughout Europe.
  Without hesitation, John answered his country's call, took his new 
bride to live with his mother and joined millions of the Greatest 
Generation to fight for the survival of mankind. The year of 1940 
marked the beginning of John's five-year service in the European 
Theatre. He served in the artillery division of the United States Army 
Air Corps. By the grace of God, John survived the war and helped save 
the world from the rise of socialism.
  After the war, he went on to author the first instruction manual for 
the nuclear submarine, the very same nuclear submarine invented by the 
``Father of the Nuclear Navy,'' Admiral Hyman Rickover. John and Velma 
went on to raise three wonderful children, John, Patricia and Kathleen. 
John moved to Payson in 1969.
  When we look at John's life and what he has accomplished, it's clear 
to see why he is loved by so many. He and so many like him put their 
lives on hold and placed themselves in a situation that none of us 
could possibly fathom. All of this, in defense of our country. We can 
never repay John's service to our country. May he have a blessed 
birthday and may many learn from his example of service and patriotism. 
Happy Birthday, John.

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