Tester: ‘Let America salute Joe Papez’

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement in honor of Joe Papez of Red Lodge, Mont., who passed away this week at the age of 100.  Last year, Tester paid tribute to Papez after sharing the decorated World War II veteran's incredible life story on the floor of the U.S. Senate.  Papez was thought to be the nation's oldest living Purple Heart recipient.

"Joe Papez saluted our country for a century; now let America salute Joe Papez.  He was and always will be a Montana hero.  Joe's distinguished life was defined by patriotism and service.  We'll never forget his determination, the respect he always had for his Army buddies, and the pride he took in our country and our flag."