[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 195 (Friday, November 5, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1207-E1208]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING WWII VETERAN, DEAN McKINLEY

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. VAN TAYLOR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 5, 2021

  Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize WWII Veteran, 
Dean McKinley.

[[Page E1208]]

Born in 1920, McKinley would lose his father as an infant. Determined 
to succeed at a young age, Dean took a typing and shorthand course, 
which would set the stage for his future career.
  Following his graduation from high school in 1937, Dean would make 
the decision to sign up for the Selected Service. However, due to 
asthma, Dean was unable to pass the physical exam, excluding him from 
the draft. Yet, his condition did not deter him from serving his 
country. After undergoing chiropractic treatments, Dean's asthma was 
alleviated, allowing him to apply for the Marine Corps in December of 
1942--the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
  While stationed in San Diego prior to his unit shipping out to Japan, 
Dean would take on the role of court reporter for the Board of Inquiry 
after the tragic suicide of a fellow Marine Officer. The typing and 
shorthand course taken in his youth unexpectedly proved to be useful as 
Dean was the only one in his unit able to write shorthand. When 
presented with Dean's work, the General promoted him on the spot. In as 
little as two years, Dean would earn promotions to the ranks of Senior 
Tech, Master Sergeant, and Aviation West Coast which was an unheard of 
upward-mobility. Impressively, Dean would go on to serve as the 
General's Stenographer and Secretary.
  After contracting malaria while stationed in New Zealand, Dean was 
discharged from the Marines and returned to the States where he would 
many his wife, Marvel. Dean and Marvel have been married for over 77 
years and can still be found playing bridge together every week.
  Following his time in the military, Dean would begin his career as a 
chiropractor, devoting 43 years of his life to the very practice that 
provided him the opportunity to serve his country.
  Now as we recognize Dean McKinley, I ask my colleagues in the House 
of Representatives to join me in honoring his sacrifice and service.

                          ____________________