[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 1]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 420]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO RUDY RUDIBAUGH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 29, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to Mr. Rudy Rudibaugh and recognize his contributions to 
this nation. Now a resident of Parlin, Colorado, Rudy began his service 
as a sailor during World War II when he joined the Navy and served in 
the Pacific Theatre. During his tour, Rudy was involved in five allied 
invasions, including the invasion and subsequent liberation of the 
Philippines.
  Rudy was assigned to Underwater Demolition Team 10, serving as a 
``frogman'' or combat swimmer. As a member of the team, Rudy was a 
demolition expert assigned to demolish obstacles that would prevent the 
landing of allied forces on Japanese controlled islands. Rudy's 
exploits as a frogman were recently brought to light by the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars organization. A recent surprise ceremony highlighted a 
mission on the island of Peleliu in the Palau Island Nation chain. It 
was here that Rudy, along with several UDT demolition experts, cleared 
underwater obstacles and traps opening a path for occupation of the 
island by United States Marine forces.
  Although Rudy will not brag, he was recently awarded the Bronze Star 
for his service as a frogman, as well as the Philippine Presidential 
Unit Citation, the Philippine Liberation Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific 
Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. The surprise 
ceremony took place at the Colorado Outfitters Convention in Gunnison, 
Colorado. Rudy and his wife Deb, currently reside in the town of 
Parlin, where he serves as a local outfitter.
  Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to recognize Rudy before this 
body of Congress and thank him for his dedicated service during the 
war. If it were not for servicemen such as Rudy, America would not 
enjoy the many freedoms that we have today. He served selflessly in a 
time of great need, bringing credit to himself and to this great 
nation. Thanks Rudy for your service.

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