[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 45 (Wednesday, April 22, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E623]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE BAILEY-RICHMAN VFW POST'S 50TH YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 22, 1998

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, permit me to take this opportunity to 
recognize the 50th anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Bailey-
Richman Post No. 9588 in Monticello, New York. This VFW Post has been 
an invaluable asset to Sullivan County, assisting the veterans of our 
region and our nation as a whole.
  The VFW Post No. 9588 was chartered April 4, 1948 in the memory of 
Erwin Richman and Ralph Bailey, both of whom lost their lives fighting 
for our nation in World War II. The Post, founded in the spirit of 
patriotism and honor, has fulfilled its legacy with dedication and hard 
work. It has served as a spiritual as well as a civic guide for the 
Sullivan County community. The Post's 28 Charter Life Members, 80 
regular members, 44 Life Members and the 25 Past Commanders are all 
leading examples of bravery and selflessness. Their sacrifice to 
preserve America's principles and ethics have helped to ensure a new 
and promising future for all Americans.
  Since 1899 the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has 
fought for and protected veteran's rights. Their importance is 
undeniable, having assisted the concerns of Veteran's across the 
nation. Today, the Veterans of the Foreign Wars actively petitioned 
government to bring about beneficial change. The Bailey-Richman Post 
No. 9588 has supported the national effort as well as working with the 
community members to make a better life for our veterans.
  In the ongoing effort to improve health care for our Veterans in the 
Hudson Valley Region, the V.F.W. has been indispensable. The Veterans 
of Foreign Wars has recognized the desperate need to improve the health 
care of our Veterans. Through their diligent and tireless efforts, the 
V.F.W. has exposed and highlighted the need for improved Veteran health 
care.
  Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join with me in recognizing 
the fifty remarkable years of service of the Bailey-Richman Post No. 
9588 and their contributions to our communities and our nation.

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