Captain Robert L. Martin Post Office

Floor Speech

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Ms. KELLY of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Madam Speaker, I am pleased to join my colleagues in consideration of H.R. 1449, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 3033 203rd Street in Olympia Fields, Illinois, as the Captain Robert L. Martin Post Office.

Captain Robert L. Martin was a true American hero dedicated to serving his country to ensure the continued safety of all Americans.

Robert L. Martin graduated from Iowa State University, where he completed a civilian pilot training program, and joined the Army Air Corps in January 1944. Captain Martin was one of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II, serving as a combat pilot in the 100th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group.

During his 64th mission, he was shot down over German-occupied territory and safely evaded capture for 5 weeks to return across Allied lines. He left the Army in 1945 with the rank of captain.

His war decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 6 oak leaf clusters, and the Purple Heart. Martin was also awarded the Congressional Medal in 2007 by President George W. Bush at a ceremony honoring the Tuskegee Airmen.

Having lived in Olympia Fields, Illinois, it would be a tribute to his life's accomplishments to name the post office there as the Captain Robert L. Martin Post Office, bringing a source of pride to the community in honoring a great American hero.

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