[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 160 (2014), Part 3]
[House]
[Pages 4276-4277]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING COLONEL GERALD F. RUSSELL

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Pennsylvania (Mr. Thompson) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the world recently lost a 
great American hero and one among the last remaining of the Greatest 
Generation, Colonel Gerald F. Russell of Centre County, Pennsylvania. 
Today, I rise to honor the life and the legacy of this brave combat 
veteran. One of only two surviving Iwo Jima battalion commanders, 
Colonel Russell passed away on Monday, February 24, 2014, at the age of 
97. It is an honor to have called Gerry my friend.
  As one of the most decorated marines in World War II and with over 28 
years of military service, Colonel Russell spent a life serving his 
country. And while his military career was second to none, Russell's 
humanitarian and philanthropic work was equally remarkable. Indeed, it 
was his commitment to service and serving others that made him a pillar 
for both the Nation's military and his local community, which 
encompasses much of central Pennsylvania and well beyond.
  A graduate of Boston College, Russell was one of the first alternates 
for the 1940 U.S. Olympic track team in the 800 meters, a sport he 
loved with a passion.
  Immediately following his completion of undergraduate studies, 
Russell began his career in uniform when he enlisted in the United 
States Marine Corps. During his service, Colonel Russell took part and 
played a role in seminal moments in the country's history.
  As one of the youngest battalion commanders in World War II, at the 
age of 27, Russell was responsible for leading 1,000 troops during the 
first major offensive by Allied forces against the Empire of Japan--the 
Battle of Guadalcanal. Russell suffered shrapnel wounds during the 
campaign after being hit by Japanese aircraft during landing.

[[Page 4277]]

  At the ripe age of 29, Russell landed in the third assault wave on 
Iwo Jima, Red Beach One, and fought for all 36 days. Again wounded 
during battle, Russell went on to witness the historical raising of the 
American flag on Mount Suribachi.
  These are just a few of the many remarkable experiences of this 
amazing individual, Mr. Speaker.
  Following his retirement from the Marine Corps, Russell went on to 
serve others through roles in academia and philanthropy, including as 
associate dean of the College of Health and Physical Education at 
Pennsylvania State University.
  During this time and after, Russell was always a tireless community 
and volunteer advocate.
  He was the founder and chairman of the local United Way Day of 
Caring, served as a member of the United Way board of directors, and 
played an active role in the Pennsylvania Special Olympics, the Centre 
Country Toys for Tots, and many other programs that benefit our local 
community.
  Mr. Speaker, in all of these endeavors, Russell inspired so many to 
give back and pushed his community to do the same. He led a life built 
on service, sacrifice, and a commitment to others.
  Colonel Russell once stated that he hoped that he would be remembered 
for the impact that his life had on others and that he made a 
difference. Well, Mr. Speaker, I rise today as one more voice among the 
countless others across Pennsylvania, the country, and the world to 
praise Colonel Russell for doing just that. We thank you for your 
unparalleled service to this Nation and our community. May you rest 
with God, my friend.

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