Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04), saddened by the passing of World War II hero George Watson of Lakewood, N.J., a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, issued the following statement: 

    “I was dismayed to learn of the passing of George Watson. You read about Mr. Watson in history books. He faced Nazis. He faced racism in the military. He overcame. He helped make the world a better place. I remember him well and fondly, and was greatly honored when I was asked to help him get the Purple Heart a few years ago. I will always recall that special moment when we presented it to him in a grand ceremony on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. It was humbling for me to be in the presence of one of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. But on that day, we all got to shake his hand, thank him in person, and learn about his extraordinary life.”

    Smith, former chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, assisted Mr. Watson, a member of the segregated Tuskegee Airmen, in trying to get the Purple Heart for over 10 years before the medal was finally approved.  Smith presented the medal to Mr. Watson then 89 in a ceremony before friends, family and admirers at Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst at a May 10, 2010 event.

    “His passing, and that of all of our trailblazing Tuskegee Airman, and all of our World War II vets, is a great loss to our country. Marie and I are grateful for his service to the country and offer our deepest condolences to his family. All Americans must be thankful for their sacrifice.”

     Services are expected to be held on July 1 in Lakewood. For a summary of his life or more information about services, click here.

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