[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 161 (Thursday, September 17, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E855]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF JOHN KUSMITCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 17, 2020

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life and 
service of John Kusmitch of Kingsford, Michigan. Through his extreme 
courage and selflessness, John has become an indispensable part of the 
state of Michigan.
  John enlisted in the United States Army in August of 1949 at just 18. 
During the Korean War, he served in the 25th Infantry Division as a 
motor transport operator, and was responsible for supervising and 
operating vehicles to transport personnel and cargo. The vital work of 
motor transport operators like John were the backbone of our military 
operations during this conflict--providing advanced mobility both on 
and off the battlefield. In April of 1951, John was captured by hostile 
forces and endured 27 months of harsh conditions as a Prisoner of War.
  Observed annually on the third Friday of September, National POW/MIA 
Recognition Day honors those who were Prisoners of War and those who 
are still Missing in Action in service to their nation. We owe the men 
and women in uniform who were captured, missing, or unaccounted for a 
debt which can never be repaid. By coming together to honor those who 
stood up to defend and to serve, the people of Michigan's First 
District can ensure that the service and sacrifice of those in uniform 
is never forgotten.
  Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the service of John 
Kusmitch. Michiganders can take immense pride in knowing that the First 
District is home to such a selfless individual. On behalf of my 
constituents, I wish John all the best in his future endeavors.

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