[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 96 (Wednesday, June 5, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H3670]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF HERB ELFRING

  (Mr. WALBERG asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of 
the heroic Normandy invasion, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Herb Elfring of Jackson, Michigan, who passed on May 25 at the age 
of 102.
  From 1940 to 1945, Herb served in the U.S. Army National Guard as a 
member of the 251st Coast Artillery. He was stationed in Hawaii during 
Pearl Harbor and is one of the last known survivors.
  By 1944, Herb had completed Officers Candidate School and was 
promoted to the rank of captain. Herb was awarded medals for his 
heroism, including a World War II Medal, American Defense Medal, and 
the American Campaign Medal.
  Following his military service, Herb earned a degree in electrical 
engineering from the University of Michigan and went on to have a 
successful career at Consumers Energy. Herb and his late wife, Ruth, 
were married for 57 years and had five children, eight grandchildren, 
and their family continues to grow.
  Herb was a giant in the Jackson community and was known to enjoy 
square dancing, playing euchre, and spending time with his loved ones. 
He was also an advocate for his fellow veterans, helping start the One 
Stop Veterans Resources. Herb also helped mentor young veterans, 
including those from recent conflicts.
  I was honored to know Herb and spend time with him. He will be sorely 
missed. We honor Herb for his service to our country, his commitment to 
our community, and his life well lived.

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