[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 79 (Wednesday, June 17, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1151-E1152]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                     TRIBUTE FOR MR. JOHN M. MELLA

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BART STUPAK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 17, 1998

  Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, this past April I had the pleasure to speak 
at a testimonial dinner in a small area of my district a few miles 
north of the Wisconsin border in a town called Iron Mountain. Iron 
Mountain is an old, ethnically diverse iron mining town which is 
surrounded by beautiful plush forests, roving wolves and soaring 
eagles. It is such a delight for me to have the opportunity to visit 
this

[[Page E1152]]

town because of its relaxing atmosphere and the friendly demeanor of 
its residents. However, even in the apparent serenity of this tucked-
away, laid-back fishing haven, many people in Iron Mountain still have 
the haunting memories of their days as soldiers during times of war.
  You see Mr. Speaker, my district, Michigan's First Congressional 
District, has the most veterans residing in its area than any other 
congressional district in Michigan. So it is often that I attend a 
veterans gathering or function. The purpose of the testimonial dinner 
that I attended this past April was to honor one of those veterans. His 
name is John Mella and he is the reason why I stand before you today 
with this tribute. Mr. Mella has recently completed his year as 
American Legion State Commander. We, in the Upper Peninsula, couldn't 
have been prouder to have him as State Commander since it has been 
fifteen years since a fellow Yooper has held the post.
  Mr. Mella became part of the American Legion because of his honorable 
service in the United States Armed Forces. He has worked his way up as 
American Legion State Commander because of his continued patriotism and 
his commitment to the preservation of the memory of all soldiers of 
war. He, as do all veterans, understands what it means to be part of a 
community, to work together for one another. Mr. John Mella and all 
veterans who are part of the American Legion have made a pledge to our 
nation that during times of peace or times of war, they will be a 
united body to provide service to our country and will be the model of 
Americanism, joining together for the betterment of one another.
  Ever since May 9, 1919 when the American Legion approved its 
constitution, it as upheld its stated commitment to God and Country. 
All citizens of the United States can look to these people who 
epitomize dedication and devotion to our nation. As the Representative 
of Michigan's First District, I am proud to have one of these such 
citizens residing in my district. In Iron Mountain, a town of apparent 
serenity and peacefulness, resides many brave Americans who had served 
and fought to protect justice, freedom and democracy, one particular is 
Mr. John Mella, a man of distinction, honor and service. A man who has 
my sincere admiration and appreciation. A man I am proud to call my 
friend.

                          ____________________