Capitol Words a project of the Sunlight Foundation

Rep. Michael M. Honda

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the courage and unwavering dedication of Staff Sergeant William ``Denny'' Weisgerber, United States Marine Corps (retired). Weisgerber is a true hero and symbol of pride for the Bay Area.

Denny Weisgerber served on active duty in the United States Marine Corps from February 1949 to May 1953. Serving as the assistant platoon Sergeant, Weisgerber saw combat action in Korea on Bunker Hill, Reno, Vegas, Seattle and Warsaw Outposts, in front of the main line of resistance known as the ``Hook,'' on the Jamestown Line. It was during an assault on the outpost Seattle, in front of the Jamestown Line, when Weisgerber was severely wounded. He refused medical treatment and courageously moved forward to aid a wounded comrade, fearlessly exposing himself to intense hostile fire. His wounds later resulted in the loss of his leg. In recognition of his bravery and valor, he was awarded the Navy Cross and Purple Heart for his actions that night. During this time, Weisgerber was on track to receive a promotion. Unfortunately, he was medically discharged due to the wounds he received at outpost Seattle, thus making him ineligible for promotion.

Weisgerber returned to the United States to start his family with his high school sweetheart and wife Marianne, eventually settling in the Bay Area. Despite being medically discharged and now age 81, Weisgerber has remained committed to the Marine Corps and continues to serve and exhibit true volunteerism. He helps young Marines adjust to civilian life, find jobs, and obtain military benefits once they leave the service. Weisgerber continues to counsel generations of amputee veterans and other returning veterans at the Palo Alto Veterans Hospital and the Menlo Park Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Center. His own story of perseverance is an inspiration to wounded veterans and to the entire Marine Corps. In my district, the Marines of the 4th Marine Logistic Group, Marine Forces Reserve always speak highly of Weisgerber, often praising him as the epitome of the Marine Corps. He is continuously present, providing a helping hand to the Marines in every possible way.

Weisgerber's commitment extends to the broader community as well. He served three terms as the Mayor of Milpitas and currently sits on numerous boards and commissions in the Bay Area on issues ranging from transportation to veterans' affairs. His accomplishments in the community are noteworthy, and they speak to a lifetime spent dutifully serving others.

William D. Weisgerber has worked tirelessly for the past 58 years as a ``retired'' Marine and has asked for nothing in return. However, grateful Marines touched by Weisgerber's unwavering service have campaigned on his behalf to see that he is deservedly recognized. On December 5, 2011, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, in accordance with section 1563 of title 10, U.S. Code, approved the honorary promotion of Staff Sergeant Weisgerber to Gunnery Sergeant due to his selfless dedication to our country.

Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, January 28th 2012, Staff Sergeant William ``Denny'' Weisgerber will finally receive the promotion that he has deserved for six decades. I proudly commend Gunnery Sergeant William ``Denny'' Weisgerber for his commitment and noble service to our Marines, veterans, community and country. His daily sacrifice to our community and the Marine Corps is extraordinary.