[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 36 (Wednesday, February 28, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H736]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING JACK BODNER
(Mr. FITZPATRICK asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of an
extraordinary serviceman from my district, my hometown, Jack ``Pop-
Eye'' Bodner, who passed away at the age of 102 years old.
Mr. Speaker, Jack was a well-accomplished member of the United States
Navy, having earned the European Theater Medal with four stars, the
Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.
Three years ago, our office had the honor to present Jack with his
Combat Action Ribbon for his courageous service during World War II.
Jack enlisted with the U.S. Navy shortly after the attack on Pearl
Harbor. He served our Nation across the globe. He was involved in
several military operations, such as the Battle of Gela, the landing in
Salerno, Italy, and the landing at Omaha Beach on D-Day in a U.S.
amphibious landing craft.
Mr. Speaker, his service abroad garnered him the status of knight
within the Legion of Honour, the highest decoration given by the
Honorary Consul of France, in recognition of his contribution to the
liberation of France.
May Jack Bodner's memory inspire all of us to strive toward courage
and remind us of the heroes living amongst us. May God bless him and
his family.
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