[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 22]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 30993]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    LIFE OF MAJ. GEN. GEORGE RUHLEN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY BONILLA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 21, 2003

  Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Maj. Gen. 
George Ruhlen. Maj. Gen. Ruhlen loved this country and lived a life of 
service protecting the freedoms we hold dear. Maj. Gen. Ruhlen was a 
graduate of the United States Military Academy and completed regular 
courses at the Field Artillery School, the Army War College and the 
National War College. He was a great patriot and served this country 
well, commanding the Third Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 9th 
Armored Division during World War II. His battalion participated in the 
defense of Luxembourg, Bastogne, and the capture of the Ludendorff 
Bridge over the Rhine River at Remagen. Maj. Gen. Ruhlen's actions in 
the capture of the Ludendorff Bridge were of extreme significance, 
helping to hasten the end of the war in Europe. This historic capture 
allowed over 25,000 American soldiers, tanks, artillery and trucks to 
cross the bridge safely. In addition, Maj. Gen. Ruhlen served with 
honor in overseas postings in Japan, Taiwan and Pakistan. He went on to 
serve as Commander of the 1st Armored Division, Deputy Commanding 
General, Fourth U.S. Army and Commanding General, Fort Sam Houston. 
Maj. Gen. Ruhlen received the Silver Star for Gallantry in Action 
during the Battle of the Bulge. He was also the recipient of the 
Distinguished Service Medal, the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the 
Legion of Merit and the Belgian, French and Luxembourg Croix de Guerre. 
His leadership and valor were an inspiration to those who knew him. He 
was truly a great American.

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