[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 73 (Monday, April 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING JAMES COLLINS TAYLOR, VETERAN OF THE GHOST ARMY, FOR RECEIVING 
                      THE CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL

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                          HON. WARREN DAVIDSON

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 29, 2024

  Mr. DAVIDSON. Mr. Speaker, on February 1, 2022, the President signed 
into law S. 1404, which awarded a Congressional Gold Medal to the 23rd 
Headquarters Special Troops and the 3133d Signal Service Company, known 
as the Ghost Army. The Congressional Gold Medal is the oldest and 
highest civilian award in the United States. I rise today to honor 
Sergeant Major James Collins Taylor II for his contributions, 
sacrifices, and patriotism while serving in the Ghost Army during World 
War II. Due to the unit's sworn secrecy, their service and 
contributions went unnoticed for far too long.
  Sergeant Major James Collins Taylor II was born in Mission, Texas, on 
November 13th, 1915. Mr. Taylor joined the Civilian Conservation Corps. 
After the outbreak of World War II, he was assigned to the 23rd 
Headquarters Special Troops. This specialized unit comprised only 1,100 
brave Americans and often served near the front lines.
  Mr. Taylor helped conduct numerous deceptive campaigns with the Ghost 
Army throughout Europe. During his service, he received a Certificate 
of Merit and was promoted to Sergeant Major of the Army--the highest 
rank possible for an enlisted soldier. While the Ghost Army's work was 
secret, its impact was substantial. The Ghost Army performed 22 
``deception missions'' across the front lines of France, Belgium, and 
Germany. By simulating the movement of 30,000 service members, the 
Ghost Army fooled German forces and aided General Patton at several 
critical junctures in World War II.
  It is my honor to recognize the service Sergeant Major James C. 
Taylor and the Ghost Army. Their dedication and service saved thousands 
of American lives. Although the Congressional Gold Medal reaches Mr. 
Taylor posthumously, he is survived by a grateful family and country.

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