[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 61 (Monday, May 6, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E707]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E707]]


                IN HONOR OF THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

                                 ______


                        HON. BENJAMIN L. CARDIN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                           Monday, May 6, 1996

  Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars, Post 9083 in Parkville, MD which is celebrating its 50th 
anniversary.
  In 1946, as returning soldiers from World War II, these veterans 
found themselves informally meeting at neighborhood stores or on the 
street. It quickly became clear that they needed a more formal meeting 
place; somewhere to come together to be with others who had shared the 
same experiences that were so binding.
  The Parkville VFW post began with 15 charter members; today it boasts 
1,851 members. The post has grown along with the Parkville neighborhood 
and through the years has done an outstanding job of serving both the 
community and its members.
  The VFW post has an impressive record of service. The post raised 
more than $10,000 for the Johns Hopkins Children's Cancer Fund in one 
of its most successful endeavors. The post sponsors events for high 
school students such as the VFW Voice of Democracy Oratory Contest, 
which awards a $25,000 scholarship to the national winner. Its 
assistance with local scout troops and ROTC groups also has benefited 
the youth of Parkville.
  The VFW post members have a strong bond with veterans in the area. 
Their longstanding tradition of sponsoring a monthly event at the Fort 
Howard Veterans Hospital has helped to lift the spirits of many sick 
and disabled veterans. This VFW post is marked by the caring assistance 
its members extend to fellow veterans and their families. Every meeting 
begins with the question: ``Is there a member of the post or a family 
member in distress?''
  I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Parkville VFW 
post on its 50th anniversary. The veterans who fought to keep our 
country free have have worked hard to make our community a better place 
to live. The veterans of Post 9083 have shown an uncommon caring and 
dedication to others that truly make them a valued asset to our 
community.

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