Congressman Krishnamoorthi Authors Entry In Congressional Record Honoring Distinguished WWII Service Of Schaumburg Resident Bernie Bluestein
Mr. Bluestein is one of nine surviving veterans of the “Ghost Army,” an elite U.S. military unit during World War II
WASHINGTON – Last week, Congressman Krishnamoorthi authored an entry in the Congressional Record to honor his constituent Bernie Bluestein for his service in U.S. military's elite "Ghost Army" during World War II. The text of the Congressman's tribute follows below:
Madam Speaker, today I wish to honor the distinguished service of Bernie Bluestein, a resident of Schaumburg, Illinois and of my district who is one of nine veterans of the "Ghost Army," an elite U.S. military unit during World War Two, still alive today.
During the war, the Ghost Army operated covertly, deploying tactics such as inflatable tanks, the use of sound effects, radio deception, and impersonation to gain an upper hand on the enemy by concealing the strength and location of American troops. In June 1945, the unit returned home after having served with four U.S. armies throughout England, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Holland, and Germany.
There is no doubt that the Ghost Army's efforts, while not officially declassified until 1996, were critical to our military's success in turning the tide of the war in Europe. It is estimated that the brave missions undertaken by the Ghost Army saved around 30,000 American lives during the war. Mr. Bernstein's service as a part of this unit was heroic, and Illinois' Eighth Congressional District was incredibly proud to see him awarded the Congressional Gold Medal earlier this year.
Mr. Bluestein has, however, done much more in his life in addition to his exemplary service as a soldier. Since returning home, he has become a lifelong learner, enrolling in classes at Harper College for more than 30 years and finishing art school. This year, at 98 years old, he is fulfilling his life-long dream of learning to sculpt by taking classes at Harper College.
Madam Speaker, I want to recognize the tremendous sacrifice and accomplishments of this humble man from Schaumburg, Illinois. Mr. Bluestein is a distinguished serviceman and remarkable citizen. He represents the values of integrity, service, and character that make our country a beacon to others around the world.