[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 8 (Tuesday, January 10, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E12]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING CAPTAIN THOMAS F. MANTELL JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JAMES COMER

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 10, 2023

  Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Captain Thomas F. 
Mantell Jr., of Simpson County, Kentucky, who was killed while serving 
in the Kentucky Air National Guard on January 7, 1948.
  Earlier that day, an unidentified flying object was reported in 
several locations in Kentucky and Ohio. Despite the dangerous nature of 
the mission, Captain Mantell heroically pursued the object and paid the 
ultimate sacrifice while in pursuit. His death was the first of the 
Kentucky Air National Guard.
  Captain Mantell also served as a decorated officer in the Army Air 
Corps, flying missions over Normandy and on D-day. For his service 
during World War II, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross for 
heroism.
  In the years since Captain Mantell's untimely death, the people of 
Simpson County have kept his memory alive. A memorial was dedicated in 
his honor in 2001, and commemorations to mark the 75th anniversary will 
take place this year. I join the people of Simpson County in 
remembrance and gratitude for his bravery while carrying out his final 
mission.

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