[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 116 (Monday, September 10, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1613]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       TRIBUTE TO HARRY PREGERSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 10, 2001

  Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an 
exceptional individual, Harry Pregerson. He is not only the oldest 
active Judge of the United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and a 
man of legendary accomplishments, he is a good friend whose wise 
counsel I rely upon. I am pleased that he will be honored by the San 
Fernando Valley Bar Association on September 29, 2001, with the 
prestigious Stanley Mosk Legacy of Justice Award.
  Judge Pregerson began his legal career, after graduating from Boalt 
Hall Law School, in private practice. In 1964, he was named to the Los 
Angeles Municipal Court and subsequently to the Superior Court. In 
1967, President Johnson appointed him to the United States District 
Court for the Central District of California. Later, Judge Pregerson 
was named to the Ninth Circuit by President Carter. Each of these 
prestigious appointments were a direct result of his hard work, talent 
and dedication. During these years, he garnered an impressive 
reputation and earned the respect of his colleagues.
  In addition to his judicial career, Judge Pregerson has been a 
longtime advocate for the homeless, especially homeless veterans. He 
has overseen the construction of thousands of dwelling units for 
homeless veterans in Los Angeles County. In 1988, Judge Pregerson 
started the Bell Homeless Shelter, a shelter which today provides a 
full array of social services to homeless individuals in East Los 
Angeles. Recently, he helped bring together local law enforcement 
authorities, judges and county officials to create a new program that 
assists veterans convicted of minor violations complete a 
rehabilitation program and return to a productive life. His special 
affinity for helping veterans probably comes from his own distinguished 
military service. He himself is a war veteran who was seriously wounded 
in the battle of Okinawa during World War II.
  The San Fernando Valley Bar Association's recognition of Judge 
Pregerson is not surprising since the event commemorates commitment to 
the legal profession and the public. Judge Pregerson's distinguished 
service on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and numerous public 
service projects clearly demonstrate his very strong commitment to the 
law and the community.
  It is my distinct pleasure to ask my colleagues to join with me in 
saluting Judge Pregerson for his outstanding achievements, and to 
congratulate him on receiving this prestigious award.

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