[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 20]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 29329]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                        TRIBUTE TO RALPH HETTICK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 9, 1999

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to express my 
heartfelt gratitude and admiration for Ralph Hettick. His commitment to 
the country is demonstrated by his service in the infantry during World 
War II as well as his continued patriotism.
  Born on a farm in Macoupin county, Ralph was drafted to fight in the 
South Pacific Islands during World War II. Proudly serving his country, 
he was appointed to a demolitation crew which routinely handled heavy 
explosives to fight enemy soldiers. Ralph returned home after a serious 
chest injury caused by a Japanese sniper.
  Since his service, he has worked in Illinois and raised a wonderful 
family. He is a member of the American Legion and the Disabled American 
Veterans. Ralph's patriotism is evident in his constant urging for 
children to respect the flag and our country. He also generously shares 
with them his personal experiences and the history of World War II.
  I would like to thank Ralph Hettick for being a true example of what 
a great citizen can do for our country.

                          ____________________