Banks Recognizes WWII Hero Joe George on Anniversary of Pearl Harbor

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) spoke on the House floor to honor Joe George, a sailor who showed exceptional bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor and saved six men trapped on the USS Arizona. 

Click here to view Congressman Banks’ speech. 

Text of the speech follows: 

“Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to honor Joe George, a sailor who showed exceptional bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor.  

Joe defied direct orders from his superior officer and saved the lives of six men trapped on the embattled USS Arizona. 

Mr. Speaker, for years Joe’s family and two veterans he saved have petitioned the Navy to acknowledge his bravery. 

I first heard his story from Warsaw, Indiana middle school students Keller Bailey, Jason Benyousky, Ryun Hoffert, Geoffery Hochstetlar and their advisor Richard Rooker regarding their National History Day project. 

I introduced a resolution that highlights Joe’s courage and calls for the Navy to recognize his selfless actions during the attack.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the Navy recently announced that Joe George will be posthumously awarded the Bronze Star for his heroism. 

Joe George is an American hero and a shining example of the courage of the Greatest Generation.  

Thank you Mr. Speaker, I yield back.”