[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E349]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING JEAN MARIE THOMPSON-BJORKMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RUSS FULCHER

                                of idaho

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 28, 2025

  Mr. FULCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish Jean Marie Thompson-
Bjorkman a very happy 100th birthday, who will be celebrating her 
milestone on July 22, 2025.
  In 1944, Jean, an English citizen, married Paul Bjorkman, an American 
Army GI. Jean patiently waited nearly two years to be able to see her 
husband again in 1946 when she emigrated to the U.S.
  Alongside other war brides, Jean made the journey to the U.S. aboard 
a U.S. Navy Liberty Ship. The voyage was cold and rough, but her 
determination never wavered. Jean and Paul eventually settled in 
Thompson, Ohio where they welcomed their daughter. In November of 1950, 
Jean achieved her American citizenship, and in a desire to be closer to 
her daughter, Jean moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho in 2021. Jean's 
dedication to family exemplifies true determination and courage.
  Jean and her family have consistently embodied the traditional values 
we cherish in Idaho. I thank Jean Marie Thompson-Bjorkman for her 
incredible example of perseverance and fearlessness. I wish her a very 
happy birthday.

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