[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E664]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING WWII VETERAN RADIOMAN 3RD CLASS GEORGE KLEIN
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HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY
of new york
in the house of representatives
Thursday, July 9, 2026
Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and
celebrate Navy Radioman 3rd Class, George Klein, a distinguished World
War II veteran and Western New York native born on April 11, 1926. He
answered the call to serve during World War II, enlisting in the United
States Navy in 1944 and displaying extraordinary bravery and dedication
throughout his service. It is with great pride that we acknowledge this
remarkable occasion today and reflect on the legacy of his
contributions to both our Nation and our community.
While in the Pacific Theater, Radioman 3rd Class Klein honorably
served our Nation, supporting his fellow servicemembers in the
liberation of the Philippines and carrying out General MacArthur's vow
that he would return. At a time when freedom was under attack across
the globe by the forces of fascism and tyranny, it was brave Americans
like Radioman 3rd Class Klein who defended our values, our way of life,
and the lives of our allies across the globe.
Radioman 3rd Class Klein's journey began in Batavia, New York, where
he attended Robert Morris School for elementary school and later
graduated from Neumann High School. In 1946, Radioman 3rd Class Klein
married his beloved wife of more than eight decades, Corrine (Owens)
Klein, and their partnership was the foundation of his life. The loving
couple are parents to Gregory, Geoffrey, Richard, and Robert. They were
later blessed with six grandchildren, Rebecca, Matthew, Jason, Jena,
Jason, and Marina, and seven great-grandchildren, Carter, Cameron,
Brayden, Hannah, Bodhi, Ryan and the late Kayla, further enriching his
life and legacy.
He has remained deeply connected to his family and fellow veterans.
Later in his life, Radioman 3rd Class Klein answered the call to serve
once again, this time through his faith, becoming a Deacon in 1992
after completing his studies at the East Aurora Seminary. Guided by a
lifelong commitment to service, compassion, and community, he dedicated
himself to supporting others, offering spiritual guidance, and
strengthening the bonds that unite families, neighbors, and veterans
alike. His unwavering devotion to both country and community reflects a
life marked by honor, sacrifice, and service.
In recognition of his exemplary service, Radioman 3rd Class Klein
received several prestigious honors. Among the medals he has earned are
the American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War
II Victory Medal, Honorable Discharge Button, and the Liberation Medal
from the Philippines. These medals speak to his unwavering dedication
and heroism during his service, and they are a fitting tribute to the
sacrifices he made for our country.
It is an honor to recognize Radioman 3rd Class George Klein's
unwavering devotion and exceptional service to both his country and his
community. His lifelong dedication has set a remarkable standard for
all of us, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
The people of the United States will never forget what George Klein,
and his fellow soldiers, achieved during World War II to defend our
freedom and democracy.
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