[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 215 (Tuesday, December 14, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1373]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CELEBRATING TECH SGT. JAMES FRANK BOUCHER ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                             HON. MIKE BOST

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 14, 2021

  Mr. BOST. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate James Frank 
Boucher, of Murphysboro, Illinois, who celebrates his 100th birthday on 
January 4, 2022. Known as Frank to his friends and family, Mr. Boucher 
was born on January 4, 1922, in Grimsby, Illinois, to James and Lillie 
Boucher and grew up with his three siblings: Dorothy, Fred, and Bernie. 
After graduating high school, Frank entered World War II as a 
reconnaissance pilot in the Army Air Corps, flying a single engine 
Stinson L-5 in the Pacific Theater and rising to the rank of Technical 
Sergeant. His family's favorite story to tell regards when Tech 
Sergeant Boucher was MIA for 14 days. Frank landed on a sandbar and 
traveled by night from village to village along the river. Using his 
pointy-talk book, he was able to communicate with the locals, which 
allowed him to work his way back to Yunan to be transported to Kumming 
Air Base. He was back flying missions the next day. In 1946, Frank 
returned home and married his wife, Zidania Francis Ogden. They were 
blessed with three boys. After working for the United States Postal 
Service for over 30 years, Frank retired and spent his newfound free 
time teaching his sons how to hunt and fish, and the importance of 
church and family. Over the years, his family grew to six 
grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and two great-great 
grandchildren. Frank's wife of 73 years passed away 2 years ago, but 
he's still certain to cherish every moment shared with his family. 
Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Tech Sergeant James Frank 
Boucher on his milestone 100th birthday. On behalf of Southern 
Illinois, thank you for your service to our Nation and happy birthday.

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