The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN RECOGNITION OF RICHARD JENKINS' OUTSTANDING MILITARY SERVICE
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HON. MIKE GALLAGHER
of wisconsin
in the house of representatives
Friday, February 25, 2022
Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize World War Two veteran Richard Jenkins for his incredible role in liberating Czechoslovakia in May 1945. Today the Czech Republic will present him with an Honorary Commemorative Medal of Merit in Liberating Czechoslovakia during World War Two. Shortly after the attacks on Pearl Harbor, Mr. Jenkins and his brothers enlisted in the United States Military, leaving their home in Michigan. After training in Louisiana, Mr. Jenkins was assigned to be a member of the 8th Armored Division, 130th Ordnance Maintenance Battalion of the United States Army. He was then deployed to England in January 1945 for further training. After reaching Europe, the 8th Armored Division attempted to quickly push through the Hurtgen Forest on the border of Belgium and Germany. Mr. Jenkins provided crucial support to ensure the United States' success in the Battle of the Bulge. Mr. Jenkins and his ordnance provided the support needed by the 8th Armored Division as they successfully pushed back the German Army. Refueling and mechanical assistance were some of Mr. Jenkins' many roles in the 130th Ordnance, without this support the 8th Division may not have been able to traverse the thick Hurtgen forest. After success at the Battle of the Bulge, the 8th Armored Division transitioned toward Czechoslovakia. On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allies, bringing an end to World War Two in the European Theater. Then, in late May, the 8th Armored Division was ordered to Czechoslovakia to assist in the processing of prisoners of war, operating displaced person camps, and guarding vital installations. The assistance of Mr. Jenkins and the 8th Armored Division was integral to the liberation of Czechoslovakia. The successful liberation of Czechoslovakia as a result of the impressive effort of U.S. troops and the citizens of Pilsen is still celebrated today. The Pilsen Festival in The Czech Republic celebrates the key assistance the United States and our troops played in liberating the country from Nazi rule. Without heroes like Mr. Jenkins, we may not be able to celebrate these freedoms.
Madam Speaker, I once again thank Richard Jenkins for his service to the United States and the assistance he provided in the Liberation of Czechoslovakia. Northeast Wisconsin can be proud that a hero like Mr. Jenkins is being honored by the Czech Republic for his service and sacrifice. I urge all colleagues to join me in recognizing these outstanding men and women.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 35
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