[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 15038]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO RUSTY CALDWELL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, July 9, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise before this body of 
Congress and this Nation to pay tribute to Rusty Caldwell for his 
admirable service to his country and dedication to his Colorado 
community. Rusty is a true American hero and patriot, and a beloved 
friend and colleague to many in his community. In his years spent in 
the armed forces, Rusty embodied the ideals of integrity and courage 
that we, as Americans, have come to expect from our military personnel. 
He has led an amazing life and I believe it is appropriate to recognize 
this exceptional man, and his many contributions to his community, 
state and country.
  Rusty began his career of service after high school. In 1943, he went 
off to fight in World War II, and was assigned to the destroyer escort 
USS Weaver. His missions consisted of going ashore with Marine units 
and directing naval artillery on to the beaches. Throughout the war, 
Rusty went ashore nine times, and was hit by enemy fire twice, earning 
him two purple hearts. He saw action in most of the infamous 
engagements in the South Pacific including, Tarawa, Kwajelein, 
Eniwetok, Yap, Palau, Iwo Jima and Leyte Gulf.
  After the war he came home and married Eva Dean, and earned a degree 
in vocational agricultural education from Oklahoma State. This 
tranquility didn't last long however, and in 1950 he was called for 
service once again, this time in the Korean War. This time Rusty was 
trained as a forerunner of today's special forces units and Navy Seals. 
His mission was to track down and capture enemy commanders. Rusty 
survived frostbite, mine explosions, rifle shots, and a knife wound 
while he was in Korea and earned him five more purple hearts.
  After Korea, he spent 31 years as an agricultural teacher in Oklahoma 
and Iowa before moving to Parachute, Colorado in 1993. He is active in 
his community, singing in a community chorus, traveling, and 
participating in his Veterans of Foreign Wars post.
  Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Rusty Caldwell has a strong commitment 
to his country. His efforts to strengthen and secure his Nation and the 
world are truly remarkable. It is my privilege to recognize the 
accomplishments and service of Rusty before this body of Congress and 
this Nation. I sincerely thank him for his service and wish him the 
best in his future endeavors.

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