[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 172 (Friday, October 2, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E917]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING RALPH ELLIOT BOWEN, THE LAST SURVIVING WORLD WAR II VETERAN 
 FROM THE SENECA NATION'S ALLEGANY TERRITORY, FOR BEING INDUCTED INTO 
           THE NEW YORK STATE SENATE'S VETERANS' HALL OF FAME

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                             HON. TOM REED

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 2, 2020

  Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Sergeant Ralph Elliot 
Bowen, the last surviving World War II veteran from the Seneca Nation's 
Allegany Territory, for being inducted into the New York State Senate 
Veterans' Hall of Fame. Ralph, who recently turned ninety-eight years 
old in August, should be celebrated and honored for his bravery and 
sacrifice.
  Ralph fought in the European Campaign as a B-24 Liberator heavy 
bomber aerial gunner from 1941 to 1945. He helped in the efforts to 
liberate France and Europe during that time. He was also a member of 
the 15th Air Force's 450th Bombardment Group, in the 723rd Bombardment 
Squadron. The unit was involved in missions over France, Austria, 
Germany, the Balkans and Greece.
  Ralph is currently the oldest living member of the Seneca Nation. He 
is a member of the Snipe Clan, and served five terms as Tribal 
Councilor, as well as tenures as Peacemaker and Seneca Nation Surrogate 
Judge. He also served as Seneca Nation Marshal and pastor for the Red 
House Baptist Church.
  In 2019, Ralph was presented with the French Legion of Honor for his 
military service during World War II. He is the first Seneca and second 
Native American to receive the appointment of Knight in the Order of 
the Legion of Honor.
  Ralph's service to our nation during a time of great need is 
something that should be revered and remembered. We cannot forget the 
great personal risk and dedication he showed during his service. Today, 
we stand and honor his service and sacrifice. Today, we recognize 
Ralph, for his courage, resolve and bravery--and I thank him for all 
that he has done.
  Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its 
deliberations and join me to honor Sergeant Ralph Elliot Bowen, the 
fast surviving World War II veteran from the Seneca Nation's Allegany 
Territory.

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