WHEREAS, Regina Benson, a United States Army nurse, veteran of World War II, and member of the Greatest Generation, has inspired Americans with her admirable service for generations; and
WHEREAS, Regina Benson reported for active duty on September 20, 1944, and, after just weeks of basic training, deployed as a second lieutenant with the 36th Evacuation Hospital to serve in Okinawa and throughout Japan; and
WHEREAS, Regina Benson traveled to Japan on the USS Repose, which battled through a frightening typhoon with record-breaking winds of 150 knots to reach its destination of Okinawa; and
WHEREAS, in Japan, Regina Benson helped set up hospitals and care for wounded soldiers and civilians, including victims of the first atomic bomb attack on Hiroshima; and
WHEREAS, previously an operating nurse before joining the United States Army, Regina Benson specialized in facilitating the work of doctors and surgeons during medical, surgical, and orthopedic operations; and
WHEREAS, Regina Benson was honorably discharged from the United States Army on April 30, 1946, concluding a remarkable tour of duty and demonstrating courage and perseverance that saved countless lives; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of her meritorious service and valor during World War II, Regina Benson received numerous distinguished decorations, including the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic–Pacific Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal; and
WHEREAS, Regina Benson has also received the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Department of Defense Medal of Distinguished Public Service, and the Honor Award from the Armed Services YMCA's Angels of the Battlefield Awards; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Regina Benson, a veteran of the United States Army and World War II, hereby be commended for her inspirational service on behalf of the country and its citizens; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Regina Benson as an expression of the House of Delegates' heartfelt admiration and respect for her extraordinary heroism.