HONORING JEAN MARIE THOMPSON-BJORKMAN

On 2025-04-28, Representative Russ Fulcher (R-ID-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING JEAN MARIE THOMPSON-BJORKMAN" in the House.

HONORING JEAN MARIE THOMPSON-BJORKMAN

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E349] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JEAN MARIE THOMPSON-BJORKMAN ______ HON. RUSS FULCHER of idaho in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. FULCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish Jean Marie Thompson- Bjorkman a very happy 100th birthday, who will be celebrating her milestone on July 22, 2025. In 1944, Jean, an English citizen, married Paul Bjorkman, an American Army GI. Jean patiently waited nearly two years to be able to see her husband again in 1946 when she emigrated to the U.S. Alongside other war brides, Jean made the journey to the U.S. aboard a U.S. Navy Liberty Ship. The voyage was cold and rough, but her determination never wavered. Jean and Paul eventually settled in Thompson, Ohio where they welcomed their daughter. In November of 1950, Jean achieved her American citizenship, and in a desire to be closer to her daughter, Jean moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho in 2021. Jean's dedication to family exemplifies true determination and courage. Jean and her family have consistently embodied the traditional values we cherish in Idaho. I thank Jean Marie Thompson-Bjorkman for her incredible example of perseverance and fearlessness. I wish her a very happy birthday. ____________________