[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 131 (Friday, July 28, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E743]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING DEAN A. PRESTON FOR RECEIVING THE FRENCH LEGION D'HONNEUR

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                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 28, 2023

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize World War 
II Veteran, Dean A. Preston for receiving the French Legion d'honneur, 
which honors World War II Veterans for their service as they fought to 
secure France's liberation.
  The National Order of the Legion of Honour was established by 
Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 and serves as the highest order of merit 
awarded by the French government for military and civil honors. The 
Legion d'honneur has been awarded to Veterans from various countries 
for their bravery and service during D-Day military operations who 
assisted in the security of France.
  Dean A. Preston graduated from Pekin Community High School and 
enlisted to serve his country. He attended an advanced radio repair 
school which equipped him with a skillset to manage wireless radio 
networks following his completion of basic training. Dean was inducted 
into the United States Army on March 20, 1943, and served as a member 
of 927th Signal Battalion, Separate, Tactical Air Command.
  Dean earned several distinguished honors throughout his service 
including the American Campaign Medal, the European African Middle East 
Campaign Medal with 5 Campaign Stars, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and 
the World War II Victory Medal. Dean's strong communication, bravery, 
and commitment to service distinguishes him as a recipient of the 
French Legion d'honneur.
  We live in the greatest country in the world because of men and women 
like Dean. Dean is proud to have served and contribute to liberty and 
freedom. I extend my sincere congratulations to Dean A. Preston for 
receiving the French Legion d'honneur.

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