Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-02-09

IN MEMORY OF DONALD L. KUEHL

Veterans

Context

On 2026-02-09, Representative George Whitesides (D-CA-27) delivered a floor speech titled "IN MEMORY OF DONALD L. KUEHL" in the House. The speech addressed veterans affairs.

Full Text

IN MEMORY OF DONALD L. KUEHL

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E119] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] IN MEMORY OF DONALD L. KUEHL ______ HON. GEORGE WHITESIDES of california in the house of representatives Monday, February 9, 2026 Mr. WHITESIDES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember Donald Leroy ``Cool'' Kuehl, a proud United States Army World War II Veteran, whose life was defined by service, courage, and deep love of country. Born in 1925 in Long Beach, California, Don answered our Nation's call during one of the most consequential moments in history. He served as a radio operator, one of the Army's most dangerous and essential roles, and in 1943, as a Tech 5th Grade with the 347th Field Artillery Battalion of the 91st Infantry Division, known as the Wild West Division in Italy. He contributed to the Allied victory that preserved freedom for future generations. As we mourn Don's passing, we give thanks for a life well lived, guided by wisdom, love, and an enduring belief in living in the moment. He shared 62 years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Virginia, whose love and companionship remained central to his life until her passing. Don's final year was enriched by his participation in Coffee4Vets breakfasts, where he spent his remaining days sharing time, stories, and camaraderie with fellow Veterans, including other World War II Veterans. There, I was honored to join in celebrating Don's 100th birthday, a joyous occasion, last February. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May we always honor Don Kuehl's service, cherish his legacy, and remember a life well lived in service to the United States of America. ____________________

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IN MEMORY OF DONALD L. KUEHL Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E119] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] IN MEMORY OF DONALD L. KUEHL ______ HON. GEORGE WHITESIDES of california in the house of representatives Monday, February 9, 2026 Mr. WHITESIDES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember Donald Leroy ``Cool'' Kuehl, a proud United States Army World War II Veteran, whose life was defined by service, courage, and deep love of country. Born in 1925 in Long Beach, California, Don answered our Nation's call during one of the most consequential moments in history. He served as a radio operator, one of the Army's most dangerous and essential roles, and in 1943, as a Tech 5th Grade with the 347th Field Artillery Battalion of the 91st Infantry Division, known as the Wild West Division in Italy. He contributed to the Allied victory that preserved freedom for future generations. As we mourn Don's passing, we give thanks for a life well lived, guided by wisdom, love, and an enduring belief in living in the moment. He shared 62 years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Virginia, whose love and companionship remained central to his life until her passing. Don's final year was enriched by his participation in Coffee4Vets breakfasts, where he spent his remaining days sharing time, stories, and camaraderie with fellow Veterans, including other World War II Veterans. There, I was honored to join in celebrating Don's 100th birthday, a joyous occasion, last February. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May we always honor Don Kuehl's service, cherish his legacy, and remember a life well lived in service to the United States of America. ____________________