[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 129 (Friday, August 9, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E814]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





  RECOGNIZING UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS WORLD WAR II VETERAN JOSEPH 
                        DEMARCO'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 9, 2024

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an 
exceptional constituent from my district, Joseph DeMarco. Throughout 
his life, Joe has embodied a selfless and fearless spirit, resulting in 
a life rich in stories and memories. I commend Joe for his service to 
our country and thank him for his great sacrifices and honorable 
legacy. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, I would like to recognize 
Joe and wish happiness for him and his family.
  A Pennsylvania native, Joe was born and raised in South Philadelphia 
and still considers it to be ``The best place around''. A born fighter, 
Joe picked up boxing at a young age, facing the world without fear. He 
embodied this spirit in every aspect of his life, and following the 
attack on Pearl Harbor, decided without hesitation to serve his 
country. Remarkably, Joe was still only 17, meaning he had to forge his 
parents' signatures to join the United States Marine Corps. Joe began 
Boot Camp at Camp Lejeune, but his training was cut short after his 
father found him and made him come home. Unfettered in his mission, Joe 
re-enlisted 6 months later when he turned 18. He went back to Camp 
Lejeune and completed boot camp. Joe excelled in the Marines--his 
lifelong love of fighting served him well in the Marines. Growing up 
boxing taught him to never back down from a fight, a lesson he carried 
boldly throughout his time in active duty.
  At the start of his service, Joe was sent aboard a ship originally 
headed for Guadalcanal. However, the ship was redirected to the Panama 
Canal out of fear of an Axis attack on the horizon. While in Panama, 
Joe was stationed on watch duty, where he had a remarkably close 
encounter during a Japanese ambush. This ambush killed a Marine who was 
on his previous post, a solemn reminder of the danger constantly 
lurking in the seas. After Panama, Joe was sent to Texas. Once a few 
years passed, he once again boarded a ship to go to Guadalcanal, but 
was suddenly redirected back to Panama, on the same track as his first 
ship years before. Joe stayed in Panama for about another year, serving 
his country honorably. Despite the discipline and service Joe embodied 
daily, he never lost his youthful spirit from his days in South Philly. 
Joe remembers how in Marine Corps, his Sergeant would catch him 
shooting dice and make him clean the entire barracks with a toothbrush.
  Upon returning home to South Philadelphia, Joe worked as a presser in 
a tailor shop, relishing trips to Atlantic City and attending weekly 
dances with friends. It was at one of these dances that he met his 
wife, with whom he raised two daughters and a son. His family faced 
hardships, including the early passing of his son and daughter. Joe is 
currently survived by his daughter Paula.
  He worked in the garment manufacturing industry for many years. He 
also worked selling beer at the Phillies games and worked as a waiter 
at night. He loves Phillies sports, especially baseball and football. 
He enjoys trips to Atlantic City to play craps, and he loves to gamble 
(for better or worse). He also loves the classic crooners, with the 
greats like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Nat King Cole constantly on 
play.
  I remain deeply appreciative to Joe DeMarco for his life of service 
and sacrifice for our community, district, and country. His commitment 
to his fellow neighbors, veterans, and service members alike is a 
testament to his character and spirit. I am more than honored to 
recognize him today and wish him nothing but the best for his 100th 
birthday and the future beyond.

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