A Senate resolution honoring Jean L. DeCurtins. WHEREAS, those who bravely and selflessly risk their lives to protect our country's precious freedoms as part of our nation's military are deserving of special legislative recognition; and WHEREAS, on November 19, 1940, his 22nd birthday, Jean L. DeCurtins enlisted and was among 180 men who joined the Minnesota National Guard's 34th Infantry Division before World War II. He is a decorated Army private first class who served in North Africa and Italy; and WHEREAS, Jean served in the heavy weapons company, Company D. He fought in 14 engagements and six battles, in places that included North Africa and Italy, Hajeb El Ayoun, Sbiba, Fondouk, the Gothic Line, Bologna, Alife, Santa Maria Oliveto, Rome, and the Arno River; and WHEREAS, Jean was injured twice: in the hand during the Battle of Kasserine Pass in Tunisia; and in the head at the Anzio Beachhead in Italy, and he was awarded a Purple Heart; and WHEREAS, on December 26, 1944, Jean returned to Stillwater. Many of his friends did not return, but those who did formed the A&D Last Man's Club, which was named after the two companies the men belonged to in the war, Companies A and D; and WHEREAS, Jean enjoyed reminiscing with his friends and never missed a meeting, and now he is the last man left; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the State of Minnesota that it thanks Jean L. DeCurtins for his service and commends him for his years of exceptional, committed, courageous service to our nation as a member of the armed forces. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is directed to prepare an enrolled copy of this resolution, to be authenticated by the Secretary's signature and that of the Chair of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee, and transmit it to Jean L. DeCurtins.
Cal R. Ludeman Paul E. Gazelka Secretary of the Senate Chair, Senate Committee on Rules and Administration
Karin Housley State Senator, District 39