[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 90 (Tuesday, June 26, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO COLONEL JOHN COLEMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TONY P. HALL

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 26, 2001

  Mr. HALL of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to note the long-term 
record of selfless service by one of Ohio's own, and a member of the 
``greatest generation,'' Colonel John Coleman, United States Army, 
Retired. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Colonel Coleman's 
election as National President of the Reserve Officers Association and 
the 73rd anniversary of his acceptance of the oath of office as a 
commissioned military officer.
  Mr. Speaker, few American's can claim such a rich legacy of service 
to country and countrymen. We all know the excellent work that is done 
every day by the staff of the Reserve Officers Association and their 
numerous volunteer members. But few of us know the significant 
achievements of Colonel John Coleman in his role as national president 
of the Reserve Officers Association.
  During 1951, Colonel Coleman worked closely with the Marine Corps 
Reserve Association to gain passage of the Armed Forces Reserve Act of 
1952 which became Public Law 476. That act provided the framework for a 
fully integrated and fully capable reserve force working as partner 
with the regulars in meeting the nation's defense needs. As a result of 
the legislation passed, the reserve force became a critical resource 
for all military engagements that followed.
  Colonel Coleman's record of military service began with his 
commissioning as a second lieutenant of the Field Artillery in 1928. 
His record is marked by selfless service in numerous staff and command 
positions including service in combat during World War II. Among his 
many awards and recognition is his membership in the Honorable Order of 
Saint Barbara for his contributions to the Army Field Artillery.
  Mr. Speaker, Colonel Coleman fully represents the spirit of the 
Reserve Officers Association and its model, the Minuteman. Just across 
the street from the East front of the Capitol building stands the 
Association's headquarters, the Minuteman Memorial Building: an edifice 
that is aptly named as it represents the acts and sacrifices of so many 
of its members personified in the nature and deeds of Colonel Coleman.
  Just like the Minuteman, who came forward in a time of crisis to help 
his nation, so did Colonel Coleman come forward when his nation and his 
Association needed him. Mr. Speaker, I ask all Americans to join me in 
a grateful salute to both Colonel John Coleman and his devoted wife, 
Julia. We are all grateful not only for his service but also to the 
thousands of men and women who so admirably follow the traditions of 
one of Dayton, Ohio's greats: Colonel John Coleman.

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