[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 168 (Friday, October 13, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E970-E971]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING UNITED STATES ARMY PRIVATE FIRST CLASS JOHN GOJMERAC FOR 
             HELPING TO LIBERATE FRANCE DURING WORLD WAR II

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 13, 2023

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to 
recognize John Gojmerac, an American World War II war hero, who will be 
receiving the highest French military honor, the National Order of the 
Legion of Honor, for his service in liberating France during World War 
II.
  John Gojmerac was born in Croatia and he and his family moved to the 
United States when World War II broke out for fear that their home had 
become unsafe. Drafted into the Army in 1943, John was required to 
serve as a field telephone installer, first scout, and combat 
infantryman. Over the course of World War II, John nearly died three 
times. During his recovery from surgery after a nearby mortar shell 
explosion sent shrapnel into his shoulder, the war in Europe finally 
ended. After a long and hard-fought war, John was able to come home to 
the United States where he would later marry his wife, Jean Gojmerac 
(nee Roberts), and settle down in Tonawanda, New York.
  For his service, John Gojmerac received a Silver Star, Bronze Star 
Medal, Purple Heart, and several other medals for saving lives during 
the key battles of World War II. During his time in the Army, John 
fought throughout France, Italy, and Germany. At 99 years of age, John 
will finally be receiving the Legion of Honor Medal from the French 
government for his part in the liberation of France.
  I want to invite all present to join me in thanking John Gojmerac for 
his service to both the United States and France and congratulate him 
on receiving the recognition that he deserves.

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