Recognizing Dean A. Preston for Receiving the French Legion D'honneur

Floor Speech

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Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize World War II Veteran, Dean A. Preston for receiving the French Legion d'honneur, which honors World War II Veterans for their service as they fought to secure France's liberation.

The National Order of the Legion of Honour was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 and serves as the highest order of merit awarded by the French government for military and civil honors. The Legion d'honneur has been awarded to Veterans from various countries for their bravery and service during D-Day military operations who assisted in the security of France.

Dean A. Preston graduated from Pekin Community High School and enlisted to serve his country. He attended an advanced radio repair school which equipped him with a skillset to manage wireless radio networks following his completion of basic training. Dean was inducted into the United States Army on March 20, 1943, and served as a member of 927th Signal Battalion, Separate, Tactical Air Command.

Dean earned several distinguished honors throughout his service including the American Campaign Medal, the European African Middle East Campaign Medal with 5 Campaign Stars, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. Dean's strong communication, bravery, and commitment to service distinguishes him as a recipient of the French Legion d'honneur.

We live in the greatest country in the world because of men and women like Dean. Dean is proud to have served and contribute to liberty and freedom. I extend my sincere congratulations to Dean A. Preston for receiving the French Legion d'honneur.

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