[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 202 (Thursday, December 7, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1191-E1192]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     RECOGNIZING HARRY L. CHANDLER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2023

  Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, an 
esteemed member of our community in western Massachusetts, and a 
national hero. Born and raised in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Harry L. 
Chandler is one of the few remaining members of the Greatest 
Generation. Now 102 years old, Harry will be returning to Pearl Harbor 
to commemorate the day that will live in infamy.
  Harry's military service began when he chose to enlist in the United 
States Navy in 1939, right before completing his high school education. 
Enlisting as a hospital corpsman, his service in the Navy during World 
War II showcases his courage and commitment to our country, bravely 
facing the perils of war. His experiences during the attack on Pearl 
Harbor on December 7, 1941, are etched in our nation's history. Harry's 
actions that day, rescuing fellow sailors amidst chaos and witnessing 
the tragic fate of the USS Arizona and USS Utah, are a stark reminder 
of the price of freedom and the valor of those who defend it.
  This week, as Harry returns to Pearl Harbor, he is not just 
revisiting a site of historical significance; he is returning as a 
living testament to the bravery of those who served alongside him. 
Accompanied by his granddaughter, Kelli Fahey, and her husband, Ron 
Mahaffee, Harry will partake in numerous commemorative ceremonies, 
including the profound honor of saluting a battleship during the USS 
Arizona memorial service.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Harry L. Chandler, 
not only as a veteran of World War II, but as a pillar of strength, 
resilience, and humility. His legacy is

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an inspiration to us all and will undoubtedly continue to influence our 
community for generations to come.

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