[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 151 (Wednesday, October 21, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S12894]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          A TRIBUTE TO PETER J. CARRARA--THE BEST OF THE BEST

 Mr. JEFFORDS. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a 
good neighbor and a man who was the best of the best. His name is Peter 
J. Carrara and he passed away suddenly on August 20th. However, he will 
be remembered by everyone who knew him as the epitome of good humor and 
optimism. Or as co-workers put it, ``If you didn't like Peter, you 
didn't like life.''
  Peter was a man who loved his country and dreamed of serving the US 
Navy since he was a child. He fulfilled his dream, served with honor, 
and became a highly decorated officer. In fact, he retired in 1992 with 
the rank of Senior Chief Yeoman on a Ballistic Missile Nuclear 
Submarine, one of the greatest accomplishments a Navy man can achieve. 
For his service he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, five 
Navy Achievement medals, five Good Conduct Medals, Enlisted Submarine 
Breast Insignia, and the SSBN Deterrent Patrol Insignia. Following his 
retirement, he held several jobs, including second constable for the 
Town of Shrewsbury for the last four years of his life.
  In addition to serving his country, Peter served his community in 
many ways. He was a member of the Shrewsbury Community Church, Rutland 
Fleet Reserve Association, American Legion Post 31, the Shrewsbury So-
Birds, and a volunteer fireman. He would approach any situation, 
especially challenging ones, with a calmness and strength which was 
reassuring to everyone around him. To quote his fellow town constable, 
``He could approach hostile people as if he knew the angel of God was 
on his shoulder.''
  As I read through the eulogies given and letters written about Peter, 
I was struck by how many people mentioned his kindness, caring, and 
compassion for others. Friends praised and remembered his big heart and 
giving spirit. For example, when he worked for UPS, he stayed late one 
Christmas Eve so families would have their presents for the next day. 
He was devoted to his friends and family and would do anything for 
them. When they were sick in the hospital, he would visit with them and 
bring them great comfort.
  In fact, his ability to comfort and bring a smile to people's face 
will be how Peter is remembered. My wife Liz said, ``You could never 
feel down around Peter. His smile and warmth picked your spirits up and 
you went on your way smiling.'' But the biggest tribute came from a 
childhood friend. ``You were my hero. I really enjoyed growing up with 
you, and today you are still my hero.''
  Farewell, Peter. You will truly be missed.

                          ____________________