[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 114 (Wednesday, September 5, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1590-E1591]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING DOCTOR WILLIAM GEORGE SHANKS UPON HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 5, 2001

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
pay tribute to a man who has dedicated himself to the care and well 
being of others. Dr. William Shanks has not only sought to improve the 
lives of others through the practice of medicine, but he has also been 
actively involved in various political and community-based 
organizations throughout his career. Upon his retirement, I would like 
to recognize the difference that Dr. Shanks has made in so many lives.
  Born in Scotland in 1943, William came to the United States with his 
family and eventually took up residence in Philadelphia. This is where 
William studied from his early years through his medical schooling at 
Temple University. William's time was occupied not only with his 
studies, but also as a member of the local Teamster's Union. Following 
his medical education, his profession provided the opportunity to work 
at the Presbyterian Medical Center in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Shanks 
always harbored a sincere desire to serve his country and after his 
internship was completed in Colorado, he joined the United States Navy 
and was a diving and medical officer on a submarine. After serving his 
country, William returned for four more years at St. Joseph Hospital in 
Denver to complete his medical residency.
  In 1976, Dr. Shanks relocated to Grand Junction, Colorado to the 
benefit of the community of Grand Junction. Dr. Shanks joined the 
staffs of St. Mary's Hospital and Medical Center and the Grand Junction 
VA Medical Center. Beyond the scope of his medical responsibilities 
locally as the Chief of Surgery and the Chief of Staff, Dr. Shanks 
chose to further serve his community by sitting on the board of St. 
Mary's Hospital, Colorado Trauma Institute, Colorado Medical Society 
Foundation and the Mesa County Independent Physicians' Association. 
Furthermore, William has had the distinct honor of serving as president 
of the Mesa County Medical Society, Denver Academy of Surgery and other 
organizations. At the intersection of medicine and politics, Dr. Shanks 
has recently been appointed to the Governor's Trauma Council.
  Equally important, William and his wife Stella have raised four 
children--Maggie Anne, Bradley, Fiona and Lorna. While maintaining a 
busy schedule providing care to his patients and the State of Colorado, 
Dr. Shanks always

[[Page E1591]]

found solace in the great outdoors, woodworking and fishing. Mr. 
Speaker, William's retirement marks the beginning of his opportunity to 
spend more time with his family and hobbies. His contributions will 
never be forgotten, as his actions will forever touch the hearts and 
bodies of his patients. I would like to thank Dr. Shanks for his 
tireless efforts on behalf of the people of his county, the State of 
Colorado and the citizens of the United States. At this momentous time 
in his life, I extend my warm regards to Dr. Shanks and his family and 
wish them all of the best in the years to come.

                          ____________________