HONORING EDWARD JAMES McGRAW

On 2025-04-08, Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING EDWARD JAMES McGRAW" in the House.

HONORING EDWARD JAMES McGRAW

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1470-H1471] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING EDWARD JAMES McGRAW (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of United States Air Corps sergeant and World War II veteran, Edward James McGraw. A tail gunner, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, prisoner of war survivor, beloved member of the Greatest Generation, and Green Valley resident, Edward McGraw represented the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Shot down over France in 1944, Edward's bravery saved countless lives, even as he endured frostbite, captivity, and some of the hardest conditions of the war. While he faced unimaginable [[Page H1471]] challenges and harsh conditions, he continued to fight for his fellow countrymen and never lost his commitment to justice and freedom. After the war, he built a joyful life, carrying with him a quiet strength from his time in service. Edward's lifetime of service and his courage, grace, and patriotism will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We will never forget the sacrifices that he and countless soldiers made for our freedoms. I thank Edward for his service, and may he rest in peace. Recognizing Carlo Rivero and Clayton Ratliff Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and highlight Clayton Ratliff and Carlo Rivero, two young athletes from Arizona who were selected to play on the 12U USA Baseball team. This is a monumental achievement that reflects their dedication and perseverance to the sport. Tryouts start with 25,000 hopeful participants with three rounds of eliminations, ultimately creating a final roster of only 18 players. Clayton is a proud resident of Casa Grande and an aspiring baseball player who is well respected by everyone in his community. He is a pitcher and outfielder. Carlo lives in Tucson and comes from a proud baseball family. His dad played college baseball, and his grandfather played professionally in the MLB. He plays as a pitcher and an infielder. I am grateful for the opportunity to honor these two young athletes for their accomplishments at such a young age. I know we all look forward to rooting for them and seeing all the amazing things that they will accomplish in their baseball and academic careers. Recognizing Andrada Polytechnic High School Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Andrada Polytechnic High School for receiving an A-plus School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Mavericks. ____________________