[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 134 (Tuesday, August 8, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E763]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CELEBRATING RAYMOND PATNAUDE'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                          HON. RUDY YAKYM III

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 8, 2023

  Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize and celebrate 
World War II veteran Raymond Francis Patnaude, who turns 100 years old 
this week.
  Born on August 9, 1923, Raymond embodies what it means to be a member 
of the ``Greatest Generation.'' When the forces of fascism threatened 
the peace, security, and freedom of millions upon millions, Raymond 
answered the call to serve, enlisting in the Army and eventually 
serving in the 97th Infantry ``Trident'' Division.
  President Ronald Reagan reminded us that freedom is fragile and must 
constantly be fought for and guarded by each generation. That noble 
mission is exactly what Raymond helped carry out when he wore the 
uniform of the United States Military. Because of the service and 
sacrifice of veterans, generations of Americans have been able to 
experience the blessings of liberty and live in a land that is free. 
For that, all of us owe Raymond and his fellow veterans a debt that we 
can never fully repay.
  Following his military service, Raymond and his late wife Beulah 
settled in South Bend, where Raymond bought and successfully operated 
McDonald Studio, the oldest photography studio in the South Bend area. 
In fact, many high school alumni from South Bend from the past half-
century came to McDonald Studio for their senior photos. Others came to 
know Raymond and his professionalism along with his kind, generous 
nature at weddings, communions, and community engagements.
  Together, Raymond and Beulah also had five children together: Ray 
Jr., David, Philip, Chris and Paulette. All five children worked in the 
studio at some point, which is a testament to the loving and tight-knit 
family that Raymond and Beulah built.
  As Raymond celebrates with his family a century of life well lived, I 
join countless Hoosiers in wishing Raymond a very Happy 100th Birthday. 
I also commend him for his loyal service and the many, many 
contributions he has made to the South Bend community, Indiana's Second 
Congressional District, and our country. Godspeed Raymond.

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