[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 129 (Wednesday, September 24, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1835]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




[[Page E1835]]

               TRIBUTE TO THE JOLIET AMERICAN LEGION BAND

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JERRY WELLER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 24, 1997

  Mr. WELLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Joliet American 
Legion Band for winning its 36th national title at the American Legion 
Senior Band Contest in Orlando, FL.
  The Joliet American Legion Band was formed 51 years ago. Since that 
time, it has grown to 85 members from Joliet and the surrounding areas. 
The band boasts a wide variety of musicians, ranging in age from 16 to 
60 and older. Directed by Tom Drake, the Joliet American Legion Band is 
proudly sponsored by American Legion Post No. 1284.
  All members of the band are volunteers who donate significant 
practice and performance time for the benefit of the community. Band 
members delight listeners by marching in parades and playing for a 
variety of community events. The Joliet American Legion Band also 
offers several free public concerts throughout the year for the 
enjoyment of all persons in the community.
  Since its formation, the Joliet American Legion Band has merited many 
accolades and awards. It has won 36 national titles, along with 41 
State crowns. Their latest victory is a great source of pride for the 
Joliet community. Not only has the Joliet American Legion Band been 
recognized for its excellence by other American Legions across the 
Nation, but also received a gold medal in 1985 at the International 
Music Festival in Toronto, Canada.
  I urge this body to identify and recognize other volunteer 
organizations in their communities whose actions have so greatly 
benefited and enlightened America's citizens.

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