[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 67 (Wednesday, April 17, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E363-E364]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING VERLA THOMAS GETTING HER FATHER A PURPLE HEART MEDAL 100 
                   YEARS AFTER HE WAS WOUNDED IN WWI

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                        HON. HILLARY J. SCHOLTEN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 17, 2024

  Ms. SCHOLTEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the commitment 
of my constituent Verla Thomas in getting her father, the late Corporal 
George Wills of Spring Lake, a Purple Heart medal over 100 years after 
he was shot and wounded in World War I. I also commend Dr. Chris Petras 
for his continued research and efforts to help West Michiganders secure 
such medals from the Army.
  Dr. Chris Petras has dedicated much of his time to researching 
Company F Grand Haven WWI soldiers. His work has led to 20 Purple 
Hearts being awarded to veterans, a feat that deserves recognition and 
applause. As a member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 28 
Grand Haven, Dr. Petras got his start in 2019 when he sought out to 
learn more about a significant figure in the post, Charles A. Conklin. 
After digging through National Archives documents, military documents, 
and numerous publications, he sent over the information he found for 
review to the U.S. Army who then affirmed Conklin's eligibility for the 
Purple Heart. Dr. Chris Petras' determination in ensuring these 
soldiers are recognized for their sacrifice and service is truly 
admirable.
  I had the great honor of working alongside Dr. Petras to help Verla 
Thomas acquire the posthumous Purple Heart medal and WWI Victory medal 
for her father's service. Several members of the military, veterans, 
and local residents attended the award ceremony in honor of her 
father's legacy. It was a truly touching moment to present Verla with 
these awards. She serves as an inspiration for my team and our district 
as we seek to give others the recognition they deserve.

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