[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17826]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNITION OF WILLIAM BLAKE

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                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 17, 2010

  Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. William 
Blake, a World War II veteran and resident of Edison, New Jersey. Mr. 
Blake will be honored with the Medal of Chevalier in the French Legion 
of Honor by the Consul General of France, Mr. Philippe Lalliot for his 
brave actions during combat. Mr. Blake's courageous actions in combat 
are deserving of this body's recognition.
  Mr. Blake served as a corporal with the United States Army from April 
14, 1944 to June 11, 1945. During this time, Mr. Blake displayed valor 
and bravery. He began as a tank driver with the 2nd Armored Division. 
As tensions in the region began to grow, in June 1944, Mr. Blake's 
division was deeply entrenched in the Battle of Normandy, specifically 
fighting in the Cotentin Peninsula. His heroic actions resulted in the 
liberation of Carentan. By July 1944, Mr. Blake and his brothers in 
arms were heavily engaged in Operation Cobra. Subsequent combat 
missions included the Battle of the Bulge, before his unit was finally 
stationed in Schonebeck, Germany until July 1945. Mr. Blake's valiant 
efforts to defend our nation during World War II are noble and highly 
commendable.
  As a result of his courageous efforts, Mr. Blake was awarded the 
Silver Star Medal. This honor is the third-highest military decoration 
for valor awarded to a member of any branch of the Armed Forces. Mr. 
Blake is also the recipient of a Purple Heart. Today he is being 
honored with the Medal of Chevalier in the French Legion of Honor. His 
nomination to the position of Chevalier in the Legion d'Honneur was 
approved by French President Nicolas Sarkozy. The Chevalier of the 
Legion of Honor is the highest military distinction awarded by France.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in congratulating 
Mr. William Blake as he receives this prestigious award. His dedication 
to this country serves as a shining example of what bravery and 
determination can accomplish.

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