[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23321]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING ALVIN CREECH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TIM MAHONEY

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 3, 2007

  Mr. MAHONEY of Florida. Madam Speaker, tonight, I rise to honor Alvin 
Creech for his valiant service in the Korean War. On Sunday, I will 
have the distinct honor of presenting Mr. Creech with his Purple Heart 
award for his brave and selfless service in the Chosin Reservoir 
Campaign during the first winter of the Korean War.
  This Tuesday will mark the 225th Anniversary of when General George 
Washington established the Purple Heart. The award is one of the 
highest honors, as it recognizes those who have given personal 
sacrifice in the name of our great Nation.
  Private Creech is a true American hero who has waited over 56 years 
to receive this honor. He was only 19 when he joined the U.S. Army, 
continuing his family's proud history of defending America in her time 
of need.
  For about a year, Private Creech fought in Korea. Mr. Creech served 
in the Third Infantry, helping to hold the defensive perimeter to help 
ensure that the Americans could make it to the coast. During his time 
in the Third Infantry, Mr. Creech spent almost a year living in 
foxholes and hunkering down under mortar attacks and enemy sweeps. He 
became a weapons squad leader, leading patrols to the frontline. 
Despite being wounded in 1951, he served a full tour of duty and 
returned home to receive a Bronze Star for valor.
  Private Creech's service to our community did not end in Korea. He is 
the proud husband and father of four, and, after working and providing 
for his family, he retired but then decided to drive a school bus for 
children.
  I am proud that Mr. Creech and his wife Joyce decided to move to Avon 
Park to enjoy a full retirement. On behalf of Highlands County, I want 
to express the community's thanks and gratitude to Mr. Creech for his 
service to our country.

                          ____________________