[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 130 (Monday, July 26, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E805]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           IN CELEBRATION OF LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDWARD ZAWORA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOAQUIN CASTRO

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 26, 2021

  Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Madam Speaker, today I rise in commemoration of 
United States Army Lieutenant Colonel Edward Andrew Zawora Sr. who is 
turning one-hundred years old on October 21, 2021. Lieutenant Colonel 
Zawora resides in my hometown of San Antonio, Texas, with his wife, 
Mary Carolyn Peak. This milestone is so joyous for Lieutenant Colonel 
Zawora and his family, and I am honored to celebrate him on this day.
  Lieutenant Colonel Edward Andrew Zawora Sr. was born in East Chicago, 
Indiana, on October 12, 1921. His parents, Joe and Ana Zawora emigrated 
from Poland in 1908 with only six dollars. At an early age he 
demonstrated hard work and resilience, growing up as one of six 
children during a time of financial hardship. He held many jobs as a 
young man to support his family, helping them make ends meet while 
attending school.
  Shortly after graduating from high school, Lieutenant Colonel Zawora 
enlisted in the United States Army. He moved to Panama from East 
Chicago to complete his basic training and was assigned to Fort Bliss 
thereafter. During his time in El Paso, the Army observed great 
potential in Lieutenant Colonel Zawora and brought him to the White 
Sands Proving Grounds. It was here that the Army was developing the 
first missile defense program, as well as the first atomic bomb. 
Lieutenant Colonel Zawora participated in these projects as a team 
member with top secret clearance.
  Lieutenant Colonel Zawora was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance 
Detachment during the Korean Conflict, in which he excelled and was 
quickly promoted. He was the youngest First Sergeant in the Army when 
he received his stripes. Throughout his career, Lieutenant Colonel 
Zawora participated in courageous assignments, such as diving into the 
ocean in order to disarm underwater mines while wearing heavy 
protective gear. He also served in World War II, participating in EOD 
activities. Lieutenant Colonel Zawora served his country in two wars 
and completed duty assignments in various parts of the world. In 1966, 
he retired as the top Army officer assigned to the EOD at Fort Monroe, 
Virginia.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to recognize the life and service of a 
person who dedicated themselves to family and country above all else. 
The entire San Antonio community celebrates this great milestone of an 
American hero. I thank Lieutenant Colonel Zawora for his service, his 
courage, and for his unending commitment to our country.

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