RECOGNIZING BILL FEELER

On 2026-07-09, Representative Jason Smith (R-MO-8) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING BILL FEELER" in the House.

RECOGNIZING BILL FEELER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E657] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING BILL FEELER _____ HON. JASON SMITH of missouri in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Bill Feeler of Rolla, Missouri, as he approaches his 100th birthday this August after a lifetime of service to his community and our Nation. Shortly after turning 18, Mr. Feeler was drafted into the Army during the final days of World War II. Following basic training at Fort Knox, he served as a corporal in the Liberation of the Philippines. After the war's end, he was stationed in Japan, where he worked as a driver for an aide to General Douglas MacArthur. For his service, he received the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, and the World War II Victory Medal. After his honorable discharge in 1946, Mr. Feeler returned home to Rolla and resumed work on his family farm, exemplifying humility, dedication, and a deep commitment to hard work. In 1953, he married Ms. Geneva Giesler of Vienna, Missouri, and together they have built a strong family, including children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren. Today, he remains active in his community--making birdhouses, tending his garden, supporting Cardinals baseball, and volunteering through his church to deliver meals during the holidays. His advice to others is simple: ``Love your country and be more patriotic.'' It is my privilege to recognize Mr. Feeler's extraordinary life of service, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his example as we approach our Nation's 250th anniversary. ____________________