WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Susan Wild spoke on the House floor to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Bert Winzer from Emmaus, Pennsylvania. Mr. Winzer, a veteran of the legendary World War II Army 1st Special Service Force, also known as the Devil’s Brigade, recently passed away at the age of 101 after a long life of service and dedication to his community and country.

“For his heroism, Mr. Winzer was awarded a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, and a Congressional Gold Medal – the highest civilian honor awarded by Congress,” said Congresswoman Susan Wild. “Let us remember Mr. Winzer for his remarkable legacy and impact on his community and this country. And let us thank all of our veterans this Veteran’s Day.”

Click here to view the entirety of Rep. Wild’s floor speech.

See below for a full transcript of Rep. Wild’s remarks honoring Mr. Winzer:

“I rise to commemorate the life and legacy of Mr. Bert Winzer of Emmaus, Pennsylvania. During World War II, Mr. Winzer served with distinction in the legendary Army 1st Special Service Force.

“When a German artillery attack sent shrapnel within an inch of his heart, he overcame his wounds and returned to the battlefield a mere 10 days later. His grit and courageousness followed him to the Battle of the Bulge, where he held off the German advance during the Siege of Bastogne.

“For his heroism, Mr. Winzer was awarded a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, and a Congressional Gold Medal – the highest civilian honor awarded by Congress.

“After the war, Mr. Winzer spent over 30 years working in the automobile industry, including at our own Mack Trucks. He was an active member in his church community and volunteered his time at local schools to share his experiences of the war.

“Mr. Winzer passed away last month, at the age of 101, in the care of his family. Let us remember Mr. Winzer for his remarkable legacy and impact on his community and this country. And let us thank all of our veterans this Veteran’s Day.”