[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 77 (Wednesday, May 10, 1995)]
[House]
[Page H4792]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  LEGISLATION HONORING HARRY KIZIRIAN

  The Speaker pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Rhode Island [Mr. Reed] is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to introduce legislation 
today, along with my colleague from Rhode Island, Mr. Kennedy, to 
designate the main U.S. Post Office in Providence, RI, as the ``Harry 
Kizirian Post Office.''
  Harry Kizirian is a truly remarkable individual. The most decorated 
living veteran in Rhode Island, Harry displayed qualities of leadership 
and courage at a very young age. At the age of 15, Harry had to go to 
work to support his widowed mother, but he continued to maintain his 
excellent academic record at Mt. Pleasant High School in Providence. 
Upon graduation, Harry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and 
was sent to Okinawa.
  On Okinawa, Harry fought with tenacity and courage, while engaged 
continuously in fierce combat. Harry was severely wounded while leading 
an infantry assault. For his extraordinary heroism, Harry was awarded 
the Navy Cross, the Bronze Star with V Device for Valor, the Purple 
Heart with a Gold Star, and the Rhode Island Cross.
  Upon Harry's return, he immediately went to work at the main post 
office in Providence where he had worked during high school. At work, 
Harry displayed the same commitment and teamwork he showed on the 
frontlines at Okinawa, and was eventually appointed as the Postmaster. 
He was confirmed by the United States Senate in 1961, and held the 
position of Postmaster for 25 years.
  Throughout his career with the Postal Service, Harry also devoted 
much of his time to the community, serving on numerous boards and 
committees. Harry served on the board of directors for Butler Hospital, 
Big Brothers of RI, RI Blue Cross, the RI Heart and Lung Associations, 
and numerous others.
  One of Harry's greatest accomplishments was raising a wonderful 
family. He and his wife, Hazel, raised five children and have three 
grandchildren.
  Harry has served his country in every capacity: in the military, as a 
civil servant, as a devoted husband and father, and as a loyal 
American. Harry Kizirian is a source of inspiration for the young and 
old, and he is a particularly cherished member of Rhode Island's proud 
and vibrant Armenian community.
  This bill would commemorate his generosity and valor for future 
generations, and it would pay tribute to a remarkable gentleman who has 
given so much to his nation, his community, and his family. I urge my 
colleagues to join me in honoring Harry Kizirian by supporting this 
bill.


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