[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 133 (Tuesday, September 24, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1674-E1675]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS ALBION PLACE MEMORIAL POST NO. 7165

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                        HON. WILLIAM J. MARTINI

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 1996

  Mr. MARTINI. I rise today in recognition of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars Albion Place

[[Page E1675]]

Memorial Post No. 7165. This year marks their 50th anniversary of 
service to the citizens of Clifton, NJ. They will be celebrating their 
50th anniversary on September 21, 1996, with a dinner at the Three 
Saints Cultural Center in Garfield, NJ.
  Mr. Speaker, the history of VFW Post 7165 is a lesson in perseverance 
and determination. Not only were the original members of the post 
tested in war, but also in patience.
  Without a building or hall to call home, VFW Post 7165 first met in 
the Clifton Volunteer Fire House. Soon thereafter, they were granted 
permission to meet in the Acquanonck Gardens Community Center. As luck 
would have it, Mr. Speaker, the community center was destroyed by a 
devastating fire before the post was even able to hold its first 
meeting.
  However, the original members of Post 7165 were resolute in their 
decision not to let this setback ruin their vision of a refuge to honor 
patriotism. They rebuilt the community center from the ashes of the 
fire and established the first true home of VFW Post 7165 in the early 
1950's. Today, Mr. Speaker, with over 580 members, the post has the 
largest following in Passaic County,
  The large membership of VFW Post 7165 not only selflessly served 
their country, but continues to donate its time and efforts to help all 
members of the Clifton community. VFW Post 7165 is involved in a number 
of charitable and community-oriented activities in Clifton. For 
example, the post is highly active in the education of young adults. It 
supports Project Graduation which provides assistance to the Clifton 
High School graduating class and awards college scholarships to the 
winners of essay contests. In addition, the post promotes and 
administers safety program for the youngsters of the city.
  VFW Post 7165 also supports and recognizes the police and 
firefighters for their unyielding allegiance to the community, and 
champions American patriotism through their appearances at various 
community functions, marches and parades.
  Mr. Speaker, I join Veterans of Foreign Wars Albion Place Memorial 
Post No. 7165 in their celebration of 50 years of service. I encourage 
others to emulate their actions and salute their commitment to 
excellence.

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