[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 20 (Tuesday, February 1, 2022)]
[House]
[Pages H325-H326]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LIFE OF PETE DUPRE

  (Mr. GOTTHEIMER asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Pete DuPre.
  Pete, better known as Harmonica Pete around the world, was a true 
American hero, an advocate for veterans and a constant inspiration to 
all those who were touched by his music. Spending time with him was a 
true honor that I will never forget, nor will my 12-year-old daughter, 
Ellie. She met him for the first time 4 years ago. They became pen pals 
and good friends.
  Pete recently passed at the age of 98.
  Pete served for 3 years overseas as a U.S. Army medic in some of the 
most important battles of World War II, including the Battle of the 
Bulge, a true turning point in the war for Allied Forces.
  Pete returned home and continued to represent our Nation, traveling 
the globe, performing as an ambassador for the Greatest Generations 
Foundation. He earned his nickname by playing our national anthem on 
his harmonica at

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the United States Women's National Soccer Team game against Mexico in 
my home State of New Jersey, at the Vikings stadium in front of tens of 
thousands of people, on the USS Arizona Memorial to commemorate the 
74th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, and nursing homes nationwide and so 
many more. Pete touched so many Americans.

  As we mourn the loss of Harmonica Pete, we pray for his five 
children; Michael, James, Robert, Pierre, and Mary Ann; his late wife, 
Jane; and his grandchildren; and all the friends and family he touched.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering Pete 
DuPre.

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