[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 81 (Tuesday, May 16, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1042]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


        YVONNE AND ARVIS RICHARDSON CELEBRATE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______


                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 16, 1995
  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, as far as I'm concerned, there are two 
things which have made our Nation the greatest on Earth, our commitment 
to family and pride in country. It is my privilege today to pay tribute 
to a couple who together, have embodied these exceptional 
characteristics for 50 years now.
  Upon the outbreak of World War II, these two young patriots lived far 
from one another. Yvonne grew up in Cohoes, NY, while Arvis was born in 
Salem, MO, and moved to St. Louis prior to the outbreak of war. Both of 
them responded to this impending national crisis like any great 
American would, they voluntarily enlisted in the military, Yvonne in 
the Navy Waves and Arvis in the U.S. Marine Corps. It was this love of 
Nation and service to country that brought the two of them together 
when their country needed them most.
  Well, Mr. Speaker, we are all reminded of the fortunate ending of 
World War II, especially as we commemorate the 50th anniversaries of V-
E and V-J days this year. However, there was another fortunate 
occurrence as a result of the end of this war. As he promised, Arvis 
returned when the fighting ceased to seek Yvonne's hand in marriage. On 
May 26, 1945, Arvis and Yvonne began their life together at Alameda 
Naval Base in California. Now 50 years later, as we commemorate the 
historic victory of democracy and freedom over tyranny and oppression, 
we can also rejoice in the happiness of the Richardson's whose marriage 
has stood the same test of time.
  Yvonne and Arvis should be commended not only for their commitment to 
their Nation, but for their commitment to their family and one another. 
It is this commitment and understanding which laid the foundation for a 
solid family structure, pivotal to their success in raising their two 
children, Dennis and Peggy.
  Mr. Speaker, I have always been one to judge people by their 
commitment to their family and children, and by what they return to 
their community. By this measure, Yvonne and Arvis are truly great 
Americans as evidenced by their clear devotion to family, and the 
American way of life. This May 28, family and friends will join them in 
commemorating their 50 years of happiness together. Mr. Speaker, I 
would ask that you and all Members join me now in paying tribute to two 
tremendous patriots and devoted family people, Yvonne Blair Richardson 
and Arvis Sanford Richardson of Waterford, NY.


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