[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 78 (Thursday, June 7, 2001)]
[House]
[Pages H2959-H2960]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         REVEREND ROBERT GANNON

  (Mr. FOSSELLA asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. FOSSELLA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to acknowledge 
the presence of Father Robert Gannon who offered the morning prayer 
this morning. Father Gannon, to those who know him, love him. Those who 
know him, honor and respect him.
  He was born in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and spent much of 
his life on Staten Island. He is a positive role model and influence to 
thousands. He attended and graduated Fordham University as well as the 
St. Joseph Seminary in Dunwoody. For many years he has been a pastor of 
Lady Queen of Peace of Staten Island. He has been a guidance counselor 
to many high school students. It is estimated more than 15,000 students 
went through his doors on their way to college.
  In addition for the last 20 years or so, Father Gannon has headed a 
committee in the 13th Congressional District that screens and 
recommends nominations to our military academies: Annapolis, West 
Point, Air

[[Page H2960]]

Force Academy, Merchant Marines. In that period of time, perhaps more 
than 150 students have gone on to those military academies and then 
gone on to serve our country. Many of those probably would not have 
gone on to those academies but for the help, guidance, and assistance 
of Father Gannon.
  Mr. Speaker, he has been a priest, a teacher, a friend, and really 
loved by thousands. I am very, very fortunate to have him as my friend, 
and I hope today that those Members of the House here understand why I 
found it an honor to ask him to be with us today.

                          ____________________