[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 194 (Thursday, November 4, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1195-E1196]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING UNITED STATES ARMY SPECIALIST 4, GEORGE OSBORNE, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. FRANK J. MRVAN

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 4, 2021

  Mr. MRVAN. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration 
that I take this time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's heroes, 
United States Army Specialist 4 (SP4) George Osborne, Jr., who was 
killed in action in Vietnam on November 22, 1967. On this upcoming 
Veterans' Day, SP4 Osborne will be recognized with a special tribute, 
and I join Mayor Jerome Prince and the citizens of Gary, Indiana, in 
honoring his service. courage, and sacrifice.
  George Osborne Jr. was born on January 30, 1948, in Crystal Springs, 
Mississippi, to George and Virginia Osborne. Throughout his youth, 
George was an avid drummer with his school's band, and he took a 
special interest in automobiles and electronics, the latter of which 
influenced his decision to join the military. Following his graduation 
from William H.

[[Page E1196]]

Holtzclaw High School, located in his hometown of Crystal Springs, in 
May 1966, George relocated to Gary, Indiana. There he worked for a 
short time at Inland Steel before enlisting in the Army on November 29, 
1966.
  After completing his required training, SP4 Osborne's tour in Vietnam 
commenced on May 20, 1967. He is remembered for his commitment toward 
the ideals of freedom for all and for his concern for those with whom 
he fought. During his time in Vietnam, SP4 Osborne made a great impact 
on his fellow soldiers, one of whom would later contact his family to 
tell the story of the day George saved his life. Tragically, on 
November 22, 1967, while transporting a mortar round, it exploded, and 
SP4 Osborne sustained a fatal fragment wound. While there is great 
sorrow in his young life being lost that day, SP4 Osborne's service and 
sacrifice will forever be remembered by a proud community and a 
grateful nation.
  Following his death, SP4 Osborne was posthumously awarded the 
Military Merit Award. For his service and sacrifice, he is also a 
recipient of numerous awards including the Purple Heart, Air Medal, 
Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam 
Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Combat 
Infantryman Badge, Vietnamese Merit Medal, and the Vietnamese Cross of 
Gallantry.
  George is remembered fondly by his friends and family. He is survived 
by his brothers, Herbert, Glen and Robert Osborne, and his sister, 
Georgia Osborne-Davis. He was also the cherished son of George Sr. and 
Virginia, and the beloved brother of Melvin Wilson, Will Osborne, Lula 
Osborne, and Lois Osborne-Kemp, all of whom have passed on.
  Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other 
distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, SP4 George 
Osborne, Jr. SP4 Osborne is a true patriot who fought not only for his 
country but for the freedom of all people. He made the ultimate 
sacrifice and will forever remain a hero to his family and friends, to 
his community, and to all those for whom he served. Thus, let us never 
forget the sacrifice he made to preserve the ideals of freedom and 
democracy.

                          ____________________