The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING UNITED STATES ARMY SPECIALIST 4, GEORGE OSBORNE, JR.
______
HON. FRANK J. MRVAN
of indiana
in the house of representatives
Thursday, November 4, 2021
Mr. MRVAN. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's heroes, United States Army Specialist 4 (SP4) George Osborne, Jr., who was killed in action in Vietnam on November 22, 1967. On this upcoming Veterans' Day, SP4 Osborne will be recognized with a special tribute, and I join Mayor Jerome Prince and the citizens of Gary, Indiana, in honoring his service. courage, and sacrifice.
George Osborne Jr. was born on January 30, 1948, in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, to George and Virginia Osborne. Throughout his youth, George was an avid drummer with his school's band, and he took a special interest in automobiles and electronics, the latter of which influenced his decision to join the military. Following his graduation from William H. Holtzclaw High School, located in his hometown of Crystal Springs, in May 1966, George relocated to Gary, Indiana. There he worked for a short time at Inland Steel before enlisting in the Army on November 29, 1966.
After completing his required training, SP4 Osborne's tour in Vietnam commenced on May 20, 1967. He is remembered for his commitment toward the ideals of freedom for all and for his concern for those with whom he fought. During his time in Vietnam, SP4 Osborne made a great impact on his fellow soldiers, one of whom would later contact his family to tell the story of the day George saved his life. Tragically, on November 22, 1967, while transporting a mortar round, it exploded, and SP4 Osborne sustained a fatal fragment wound. While there is great sorrow in his young life being lost that day, SP4 Osborne's service and sacrifice will forever be remembered by a proud community and a grateful nation.
Following his death, SP4 Osborne was posthumously awarded the Military Merit Award. For his service and sacrifice, he is also a recipient of numerous awards including the Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Vietnamese Merit Medal, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.
George is remembered fondly by his friends and family. He is survived by his brothers, Herbert, Glen and Robert Osborne, and his sister, Georgia Osborne-Davis. He was also the cherished son of George Sr. and Virginia, and the beloved brother of Melvin Wilson, Will Osborne, Lula Osborne, and Lois Osborne-Kemp, all of whom have passed on.
Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, SP4 George Osborne, Jr. SP4 Osborne is a true patriot who fought not only for his country but for the freedom of all people. He made the ultimate sacrifice and will forever remain a hero to his family and friends, to his community, and to all those for whom he served. Thus, let us never forget the sacrifice he made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 194
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