September 26, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 156 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Page H7998]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING SERGEANT VERNON JUDD

  (Mr. GIBBS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. GIBBS. Mr. Speaker, like more than a million Americans, Vernon 
Judd was drafted into service during the Korean war. Leaving his 
hometown in Stark County, Ohio, to serve in the Army, Vernon Judd was 
one of ten children, with whom he left behind fond memories.
  His younger brother, Ken, recalled fireworks shows Vernon would put 
on for the community.
  Sergeant Judd was just 6 weeks away from being relieved of duty when 
he went missing in action in 1950.
  Being taken to a Korean prisoner of war camp, Judd survived just a 
few months before succumbing to starvation, dysentery, and exposure to 
the elements, according to a fellow POW military doctor. It was not 
until 1954 that Judd's family learned of his death.
  Nearly 70 years after his death, Sergeant Vernon Judd was identified 
and returned home to Ohio.
  On Tuesday, he was laid to rest at Ohio Western Reserve National 
Cemetery, and the homecoming celebration attracted thousands.
  Vernon Judd is one of many Americans who lost their life in service 
to our Nation. His homecoming may be delayed, but it was welcomed. It 
brings peace, relief, and comfort to the Judd family.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me in celebrating and honoring 
Sergeant Vernon Judd and pray the families of the remaining 
servicemembers missing in action find the same peace.

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