Honoring the Hanna Brothers

HONORING THE HANNA BROTHERS -- (House of Representatives - February 03, 2004)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I received an inspiring letter from Jim Miles of Columbia, South Carolina, describing the valor of his grandfather, James Hanna and his five granduncles. Incredibly, these six coal-mining brothers from West Virginia served at the same time in World War II.

Roy Hanna, U.S. Army, 10th Mountain Division, fought in Italy and Germany, receiving two bronze stars. Fred Hanna, U.S. Army, 1st Armored Division, was captured at Tunisia and then lost 90 pounds through torture and imprisonment, until he was liberated by British troops. Bert Hanna, U.S. Army, Armored Division, fought at Okinawa. Carl Hanna, U.S. Army Air Corps, 9th Air Force, fought in Europe as part of the anti-aircraft battalion. John Hanna, U.S. Army Air Corps, 8th Air Force, fought in Germany. James Hanna, U.S. Marines, 6th Marine Division, fought in Okinawa as part of a mortar crew, but was quickly recruited as a sniper when battle commenced.

The Hanna brothers returned to Fort Jackson in South Carolina after the war, and John and James stayed to start their families in the Palmetto State. Even though all six brothers have passed away, their service will always be remembered as an enduring symbol of patriotism and duty. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Hanna brothers for their brave service.

In conclusion, God bless our troops. We will never forget September 11.