[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 138 (Monday, September 30, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO LEROY F. SMITH, JR., A REAL HERO

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Saturday, September 28, 1996

  Mr. PAYNE of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this 
opportunity to pay tribute to one of this Nation's heroes--Mr. LeRoy F. 
Smith, Jr. Professionally, LeRoy Smith is assistant director of 
emergency medical services for the University of Medicine and Dentistry 
of New Jersey in Newark, NJ. Like most of us, LeRoy loves his career 
and uses his professional skills for the betterment of our world. What 
is extraordinary about LeRoy is that he always goes beyond the call of 
duty.
  LeRoy began his emergency medical service career in 1969 as an 
ambulance driver. While in that position he became a New Jersey State 
Certified Emergency Medical Technician. That was the beginning of a 
sterling career of service to humanity. Over the years, LeRoy, a nearly 
lifelong resident of Newark, NJ, has shown his love, respect and caring 
for the city, its institutions and its people. He has volunteered his 
services and time to more than 30 programs and organizations. 
Presently, he is active with more than half of these groups. He has 
worked extensively with the youth of our community.
  While there are many examples of LeRoy's valor, I would like to share 
one experience with my colleagues. Last year, LeRoy underwent 
successful heart surgery. Because of his caring, there was a deserved 
outpouring of prayers and support by the residents of Newark. Last 
month, LeRoy became a hero again when he rescued a drowning child. 
Never thinking about his own safety or survival, LeRoy saved another 
life, one of many saved throughout his career.
  Mr. Speaker, I am sure my colleagues will want to join me as I thank 
and commend LeRoy F. Smith, Jr. for his heroism and humanitarianism. 
LeRoy has been recognized more than 400 times for his service. This 
year he received an honorary doctorate of humanities degree from Essex 
County College and the baseball season in Guaynabo, PR was dedicated in 
his name. It is fitting that his record of service be noted in the 
annals of American history. I also want to thank his family--his wife, 
Maria, and his two children, Michael Jason and Lee Ann, for sharing 
LeRoy with us.

                          ____________________