[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 6968]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 JAMES H. WITTER OF HOMOSASSA, FLORIDA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 3, 2006

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a 
World War II veteran and proud American patriot, James H. Witter of 
Homosassa, Florida. A Distinguished Flying Cross honoree, Mr. Witter 
unfortunately passed away earlier this year before he could receive his 
honor.
  As all Americans are aware, the men and women who fought in World War 
II were truly deserving of the term, the ``Greatest Generation.'' James 
Witter was no exception to this brave and honorable group of 
individuals.
  Serving in the European Theatre during World War II, Mr. Witter was 
part of a bombing run over Leipzig, Germany on February 20, 1944. 
Coming under fire from German anti-aircraft guns, the ball turret 
gunner was hit and severely wounded.
  Taking charge of the situation, Mr. Witter pulled the gunner, Victor 
Ray, out of his seat to examine the wound and administer first aid. 
Finding a severed artery, Mr. Witter knocked out Mr. Ray, closed off 
the artery with needle nose pliers and parachute cord and saved Mr. 
Ray's life. All this took place while under continued attack from 
German anti-aircraft guns.
  Recommended at the time to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross, 
Mr. Witter went more than 60 years without seeing the results of his 
bravery that winter day high above Germany.
  I am proud to present his Distinguished Flying Cross to his widow 
Evelyn Witter, who was his loving wife for many years. While Mr. Witter 
did not live to receive this great honor, his family will long remember 
his bravery and fortitude in battle and how he saved the life of gunner 
Victor Ray.
  Mr. Speaker, true American heroes like James Witter should be honored 
for their service to our Nation and for their commitment and sacrifices 
in battle. Mr. Witter is truly one of America's Greatest Generation.

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