[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 175 (Friday, October 9, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E945]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF ROBERT WILSON

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                            HON. TRENT KELLY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 9, 2020

  Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
U.S. Military service of Robert Wilson who is a recipient of the Purple 
Heart Medal. Robert ``Bobby'' Wilson, a native of Tupelo, Mississippi, 
volunteered for the U.S. Army in December 1951. Once he completed Basic 
Training in Hawaii, he entered the Korean War.
  On February 6, 1953, Mr. Wilson was on patrol with other members of 
his company 1\1/2\ miles in Chinese territory called the Coonwah 
Valley. On that frigid night with the temperature below zero, he and 
his fellow men were attacked by the enemy who were firing mortar 
rounds. Mr. Wilson was seriously injured and needed to be transported 
to receive medical treatment. He was picked up by a medic and placed on 
a stretcher. Another firefight ensued before he could be taken to a 
Mobile Army Surgical Hospital where he would be treated for 18 shrapnel 
wounds over the course of 39 days. His courage and bravery under fire 
earned him the Purple Heart Medal. It is my honor to recognize Mr. 
Wilson for his service to America and his pledge to protect our 
freedoms.
  In December 1953, Mr. Wilson completed his military service and 
returned home to his wife, Tomicene. The high school sweethearts 
remained in Tupelo where they raised two boys, David and Robert. The 
Wilsons were married 64 years before Tomicene passed away. In the years 
since her death, Mr. Wilson has often reflected on his days of service. 
``I'd do it again,'' Mr. Wilson said. ``I still have shrapnel in my leg 
and pain, but I will always be proud that I served my country.''
  Mr. Wilson's service and sacrifices made to defend our nation will 
always be remembered. I am honored to call this Mississippi patriot a 
friend.

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