[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 50 (Wednesday, April 29, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E702-E703]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTE TO BOB LENT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 29, 1998

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I take great pride in rising to recognize 
Bob Lent, UAW Region 1 Director, who will be retiring at the end of 
June. On May 5, 1998, Bob Lent will celebrate his retirement with his 
friends and colleagues at Penna's in Sterling Heights.
  Through the years, Bob Lent has been a fighter. His tireless efforts 
have improved the lives of the working families throughout Southeastern 
Michigan. Bob is a man who has dedicated his life to securing dignity 
and respect for all people. He has been a champion of civil rights and 
civil liberties, and has helped create a stronger, more united 
community.

[[Page E703]]

  In 1949, Bob Lent began a career with the UAW that has spanned forty-
nine years. He started as a spray painter at the Dodge Main plant of 
Local 3 in Hamtramck, Michigan. After serving his country as an Army 
paratrooper from 1951 to 1953, Bob returned to Michigan to become a 
millwright apprentice and a skilled tradesman at the Chrysler 9-mile 
Road Press Plant, Local 869.
  While at UAW Local 869, Bob's strong leadership and vision were 
recognized and he was chosen by his colleagues to serve in a 
distinguished list of appointed and elected positions. He was an 
alternate chief steward, trustee chairman, vice president, president, 
education representative, and assistant director. His vast knowledge 
and experience made him a logical choice for director.
  Bob was first elected to the UAW Executive Board as a regional 
director at the UAW's 27th Constitutional Convention in May, 1983, at 
Dallas, Texas. After his re-election to a third term, Bob was elected 
director of UAW Region 1 which covers Detroit's east side, Pontiac, 
Macomb and St. Clair Counties and part of the thumb area of 
Southeastern Michigan, and Canada.
  Bob is not only an active union leader, but a community leader as 
well. He served on the Labor Advisory Committee at both Oakland and 
Wayne State University. He has been a Democratic precinct delegate. He 
is a lifetime member of the NAACP. He also serves on the Board of 
Directors of the United Way of Pontiac-Oakland County and Detroit Area 
United Foundation.
  Few people have given to their community with the vision and 
commitment that Bob Lent has given to his. He is a person who has 
inspired the admiration of many. I am honored to call him a friend. I 
would like to congratulate Bob on his very distinguished career and I 
wish him and his family all of the best.

                          ____________________