[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 18 (Monday, January 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E221-E222]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        TRIBUTE TO VICTOR MELENDY

                                 ______


                        HON. JOHN JOSEPH MOAKLEY

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, January 30, 1995
  Mr. MOAKLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who 
was a hero in every sense of the word. Victor Melendy was a firefighter 
in Stoughton, MA for 23 years. He died in the line of duty on January 
28, and his courage will not be forgotten.
  Victor Melendy's life represents all of the best qualities of the 
human spirit. His gift was to do ordinary things in an extraordinary 
way. Victor's courage was only surpassed by his compassion. Above all, 
he loved his family. Stoughton Fire Chief John Soave said it best when 
he described him as ``the best definition of the word firefighter''--a 
characterization to which all who served with him readily attest.
  Victor Melendy led a life of public service. He served his country in 
the U.S. Navy and then his community as a member of the Stoughton Fire 
Department. As we reflect on his life, we can learn from his example. 
Victor's spirit will live on through his beloved wife 
[[Page E222]] Carol, his children Christopher, Lisa, and Kerry, and all 
of those who have had the honor to know him.
  Mr. Speaker, we have lost a true hero.
  

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