[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 17 (Thursday, February 24, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 24, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                    A TRIBUTE TO DR. GEORGE ECONOMOS

                                 ______


                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 24, 1994

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a dear 
friend, a friend who, I believe, lived the American dream to the 
fullest.
  Dr. George Economos passed away on February 16, 1993, after a battle 
with lung cancer. My thoughts and prayers go to his wife, Stavroula 
Perdikis Economos, and his children, Demetra Economos Anas, Gregory 
George Economos, and Themis Economos Johnson.
  Dr. Economos received his medical degree from the University of 
Athens Medical School in 1950. He then came to the United States where 
he studied for and received a second medical degree, this time from the 
University of Vermont.
  He came to Washington in the mid-1950's and served his internship 
residency at George Washington University Medical Center. He then chose 
to serve in the Army Medical Corps at Fort Polk, LA.
  After the Army service, Dr. Economos returned to Washington where he 
opened a private practice. For 7 years he was medical director of the 
District of Columbia Childrens Center in Laurel.
  Under the Reagan administration, Dr. Economos was a consultant to the 
White House Health Service. He then retired in 1988.
  Mr. Speaker, this fine record of public service is why I say that Dr. 
Economos lived the American dream to the fullest. His dedication to his 
profession was such that he attended medical school a second time so 
that he could become a practicing physician in the United States. This 
was a clear signal that this man would rise to become the respected 
physician that he indeed was.
  Dr. Economos also gave back to his community--and was recognized for 
this. He was awarded the titles of Archon Aktourias and Archon of 
humanitarian service, The highest awards that a layman in the Greek 
Orthodox Church can receive.
  The life story of Dr. George Economos is truly one of the shining 
examples of what an individual can achieve in this country if he is 
dedicated, if he is diligent, and if he has good in his heart.
  Dr. Economos is a true inspiration to all who knew him and richly 
deserves to be recognized here for all his good works. His life should 
be an example to all future generations.

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