[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 15876]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING LEON FRANKEL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 7, 2015

  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember a remarkable hero 
of the United States and Israel, Leon Frankel. I would like to 
recognize his heroic efforts and remarkable sacrifice in defending both 
countries during World War II and Israel's War of Independence.
  Leon was born in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1923 and, at a young age, he 
was fascinated with the thought of flying. After he graduated high 
school, he pursued his dream and was accepted into the V-5 Naval 
Aviation Program. After completing the program, Leon joined Air Group 
9, and as a pilot in Torpedo Squadron 9 he flew 25 missions while 
aboard the USS Lexington and the USS Yorktown. In February of 1945, 
Leon took part in the first Navy raid on Tokyo.
  After the War, Leon returned to his native Minnesota and served in 
the Navy Reserves. In May of 1948, he was recruited by the newly-
founded State of Israel to become a member of their first Fighter 
Squadron, the 101. He fought bravely for the nascent nation against 
almost impossible odds, flying 25 missions during Israel's War of 
Independence.
  After returning to the United States, Leon rejoined his Navy Reserve 
Squadron, and served until 1959 when he was honorably discharged. As a 
testament to his exemplary service to the United States, Frankel was 
awarded many decorations including the Navy Cross, two Distinguished 
Flying Crosses, three Air Medals and two Presidential Citations.
  It is with a heavy heart that I must announce Leon Frankel passed 
away this week. However, he will never be forgotten and his life will 
be remembered as one of exceptional service and commitment to both the 
United States and Israel. Leon Frankel is a true hero.

                          ____________________