Special Memorial Day Weekend Update from U.S. Congressman Andy Barr 

Honoring Patriots Who Gave the Ultimate Sacrifice

On Monday, our nation observes Memorial Day to honor fallen military servicemembers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms, civil liberties, and way of life.  Recently, I visited the World War II and Vietnam War Memorials in Washington, D.C., to pay my respects to some of our fallen servicemembers. 

Photo from my recent visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Photo from my recent visit to the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Madison County Veterans Committee Opens Brand New Facility

Photo from the Madison County Veterans Committee Ribbon Cutting

Last Saturday, I attended the ribbon cutting for a brand-new building to house the Madison County Veterans Committee.  It was inspiring to see so many volunteers make this day a very special day for all the veterans who attended.

One of the veterans I met was Marine Sergeant Johnny Johnson, a Korean War veteran and resident of Richmond.  Sgt. Johnson shared with me his incredible story from the Battle of Chosin Reservoir.  Sgt. Johnson and 1,500 marines were pinned down by 150,000 Chinese Communist Party soldiers, but miraculously fought their way out and back home.  God bless Sgt. Johnson, who is an American hero, and all men and women who serve our country in uniform today.

Photo with Marine Sgt. Johnny Johnson, a Korean War veteran, Richmond, Kentucky resident and American hero. 

Giving Overdue Recognition to the Harlem Hellfighters

Photo of the Harlem Hellfighters, World War I heroes, courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). 

Earlier this month, I cosponsored legislation called the Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal Act.  This legislation, if passed, formally honors the 369^th U.S. Army Infantry Regiment, better known as the “Harlem Hellfighters” with a Congressional Gold Medal.

The Harlem Hellfighters were an African American infantry unit who served 191 days on the frontlines of World War I, more than any other regiment during that conflict. They returned home as one of the most decorated units of WWI, and in American military history.  The recognition of these heroes for their extraordinary service is long overdue, and I am working to deliver it during this Congress. 

Sincerely,

Congressman Andy Barr