[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 121 (Thursday, July 18, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E943]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF RICHMOND BELL, RECIPIENT OF THE FRENCH LEGION OF 
                                 HONOR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 18, 2019

  Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Richmond 
Bell as he is awarded the French Legion of Honor, 75 years after 
bravely serving in the United States Army at the Battle of Normandy.
  At only 18 years old, Mr. Bell enlisted in the 29th Infantry in 1943. 
After many members of his regiment lost their lives on D-Day, Mr. Bell, 
along with 14 other soldiers, were sent to France in an essential 
support effort of the remaining American Troops.
  While serving on the frontlines each day for more than six weeks, Mr. 
Bell fought with courage and dedication to his country. He continuously 
risked his life for the war effort and the safety of his fellow 
soldiers.
  In December of 1945, Mr. Bell returned to his hometown of Wellfleet, 
Massachusetts, honorably discharged with three Purple Hearts. A 
lifetime resident of the town, Mr. Bell is a beloved and respected 
member of the Wellfleet community. He is the son of the town doctor and 
a former paperboy for the Cape Cod Standard. Mr. Bell, now ``semi-
retired,'' lives with his wife Gail. He has 5 children, four step-
children and 26 grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Richmond Bell for his dedication 
to his country. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking him for 
his immense bravery and valiant efforts through a critical time in our 
nation's history.

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