[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 69 (Thursday, May 22, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1015]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CONGRATULATIONS TO CAPTAIN EUGENE SWEENEY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BART STUPAK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 22, 1997

  Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, as a retired member of the Michigan State 
Police, it is an honor for me to bring to the attention of the House of 
Representatives and the American public the celebration of the 
retirement of a former colleague, a constituent and most importantly, a 
friend, Capt. Eugene David Sweeney from the Michigan State Police.
  Throughout his distinguished 30 year career, Captain Sweeney has 
exemplified the attributes and personal qualities it takes to achieve 
the respect he has earned and the official commendations he has 
received. As a member of the 67th Recruit School in 1967, he quickly 
rose through the ranks and was promoted to Sergeant on October 2, 1977, 
and was transferred to the Fire Marshal Division at First District 
Headquarters in Lansing, MI.
  His leadership and abilities soon provided the basis for additional 
promotions, including one 8 month span in 1981 when he was promoted to 
lieutenant, then first lieutenant, and post commander of the Negaunee 
Post. In 1989, he was again promoted to inspector for the Eighth 
District. On September 13, 1992, Gene Sweeney received his final 
promotion as captain in his role as commander of the Eighth District. 
The Eighth District comprises all of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
  There are few, if any positions where an individual places more on 
the line than in the area of law enforcement. Captain Sweeney put it 
all on the line every day for 30 years. He received the department life 
saving award on May 30, 1977. He also served as a model for many State 
troopers who served under his command and who have gone on to be 
excellent troopers themselves.
  Captain Sweeney is married to the former Kathleen O'Rourke. They have 
three children, Shawn, Colleen and Aaron who, in keeping with family 
tradition, is also a member of the Michigan State Police. Aaron is 
serving with the Fire Marshal Division at the Eighth District 
Headquarters in Negaunee, MI.
  Mr. Speaker, John Stuart Mill once said, ``Everyone who receives the 
protection of society owes a return for the benefit.'' We have all 
received the benefit of knowing, working with and for Gene Sweeney and 
his family.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of all the residents of Michigan's First 
Congressional District and as cochairman of the Congressional Law 
Enforcement Caucus, I congratulate Capt. Eugene Sweeney upon his 
retirement and wish him well with all future endeavors.

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