[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 129 (Wednesday, September 24, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1847]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFELONG SERVICE OF WILBUR F. LITTLEFIELD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES E. ROGAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 24, 1997

  Mr. ROGAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who has 
dedicated his life to serving his family, the people of Los Angeles 
County, and his country. In over 40 years of service as an attorney, 
Wilbur F. Littlefield has proven himself to be deeply respected and a 
dedicated public servant. Although he is best known as a man of the 
law, he is modest about the other fascinating experiences that have 
shaped his life and molded his character.
  Like many who answered their country's call during World War II, Bill 
Littlefield volunteered to fight for his country. As he would do later 
in his life, Bill distinguished himself as a man of unique ability. He 
served his tour of duty as a member of the `Alamo Scouts,' an elite 
corps of men who fought behind enemy lines gathering intelligence and 
tracking enemy movements. As a scout, Bill saw action in Guadalcanal, 
Luzon, and Leyte. He contracted malaria during one of the campaigns.
  After the war, Bill worked his way through law school at Hastings 
College of The Law before returning home to Los Angeles. His passion 
for trial work led him to the Los Angeles County Public Defender's 
Office, where his skills were rapidly recognized. He rose steadily 
through the ranks, and in 1976 was appointed the Public Defender for 
Los Angeles County.
  Under Bill's leadership, the Office of the Public Defender 
implemented innovative programs like paralegal training and the 
bilingual service program. He provided service to the needs of the 
indigent accused while never losing sight of the needs of the community 
as a whole. Bill retired from the Public Defender's Office in 1993.
  As a member of the armed services, as an attorney, and as a public 
servant, Bill Littlefield has distinguished himself as a man of great 
integrity and dedication. Under his leadership, the Los Angeles County 
Public Defender's Office grew to be one of the largest and most 
respected legal service agencies in the country.
  As a long-time admirer of his, I am honored to recognize his service 
to his country. On behalf of the U.S. Congress, I salute him for a job 
well done, and offer the thanks of a grateful nation to one of her 
distinguished sons.

                          ____________________