[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 35 (Friday, February 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E141]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO DONALD GRAVES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETH VAN DUYNE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 21, 2025

  Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown 
Hero, Corporal Donald ``Don'' Graves, a Fort Worth resident and 
distinguished World War II veteran. Graves left high school in 1942 at 
just 17 years old to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps, inspired by his 
father's service. He served as a flamethrower in the Second Battalion 
of the 28th Marine Regiment of Iwo Jima.
  Of the 335 Marines that landed on the island, only 18, including 
Graves, made it off. His strength and courage were displayed as he 
survived the intense, three-day long battle, climbing toward the top of 
Mount Suribachi. On the third day, Graves and his fellow Marines 
climbed to the summit before reaching the top and raising the U.S. 
flag.
  Graves served for four years, leaving the service for civilian life 
after the war ended It was in the heat of battle for Iwo Jima that he 
discovered his faith, leading him to serve in the ministry for 32 
years.
  As Graves celebrates his 100th birthday later this year, we honor his 
incredible journey I thank Corporal Graves for his service and the 
lasting impact he has made on our country.

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