[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 78 (Thursday, June 13, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1043]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF YPSILANTI VFW POST 2408; REDEDICATION 
                     OF CARL ROBERT ARVIN POST 2408

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN D. DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 12, 2002

  Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, as a veteran of World War II and a proud 
member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, it is my honor to speak to you 
today in honor of the 70th anniversary of VFW Post 2408 in Ypsilanti, 
Michigan. On June 15, Post 2408 will commemorate this event by 
rededicating its post in honor of the late Carl Robert Arvin, a veteran 
who served his nation with distinction and gave his life in battle 
during the Vietnam War.
  Throughout our history, 11 major wars and many smaller conflicts have 
required the services of over 40 million Americans to stand and defend 
the sovereignty and principles we, as a Nation, cherish most. There is 
no more noble cause for an American than to actively participate in 
that defense. The valor displayed by American troops in World War II, 
Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and today in Afghanistan must not be 
forgotten.
  For over a century, the VFW has served our nation well. It has not 
only lobbied effectively for the rights of veterans, but has worked to 
better communities across our nation. Members of the VFW did not stop 
serving their nation when they left the armed forces. Rather, they 
rededicated themselves to helping others, veteran and non-veteran 
alike. For 70 years, the members of Post 2408 have served their city, 
state, and nation with distinction. I would ask my colleagues to join 
me in recognizing their service.
  It Is only proper and appropriate that Post 2408 is being rededicated 
in honor of an American who fought for our country and gave his life so 
that we may all enjoy the fruits of freedom. Carl Robert Arvin was a 
man of great worth and an inspiration to all in his presence. His life 
was taken while serving his country in Vietnam on October 8, 1967. 
Though Bob was only 24 years old when he died his life achievement 
outranked men twice his age. His legacy must not be forgotten, and his 
life must forever serve the men and women of Michigan, both now and in 
the future, as a lasting testimony to the sacrifice others have made 
for our nation.
  Bob's natural born leadership was exhibited early in his high school 
career. At Ypsilanti High School, Bob demonstrated the intellect, 
athletic ability, and leadership qualities, which were the foundation 
of his subsequent achievements. He participated in numerous high school 
activities ranging from debating to quarterbacking the football team. 
An outstanding wrestler, he was team captain and captured the 154 pound 
state title. Bob capped his brilliant high school career as 
valedictorian of his graduating class. His high school achievements led 
to several college scholarship offers, including an appointment to West 
Point, which was the fulfillment of a boyhood ambition and his ultimate 
choice.
  Bob quickly established himself as a class leader when he entered 
West Point in July 1961 as a member of the Class of 1965. He continued 
his extracurricular activities and represented West Point at numerous 
conferences and functions across the country. Bob was a Rhodes 
Scholarship finalist and was among a group of college students selected 
to discuss public affairs with President Lyndon Johnson at the White 
House.
  In August 1965, after graduating from West Point, Bob reported to 
Fort Benning, Georgia, for Airborne and Ranger training. In the brief 
span of 23 months in the 82nd Airborne Division, Bob demonstrated 
outstanding professional competence and leadership. After a brief stint 
as a platoon leader and executive officer, he became the youngest 
company commander in the Division. During this tour Bob was able to 
return home to Ypsilanti and marry Merry Lynn Montoyne in 1966.
  Bob received orders for Vietnam in early 1967; he was assigned as an 
advisor in the Military Assistance Command Vietnam (MACV). He reported 
to his advisory detachment, the 7th Vietnamese Airborne Battalion, in 
May 1967. Bob was quickly thrust into combat with the pace and 
intensity of the war quickening. For combat action on September 5, 
1967, he was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart. Following a 
brief hospital stay Bob returned to his battalion, which was preparing 
for combat operations to clear enemy forces from an area threatening a 
vital air base at Hue-Phu Bai. Bob was mortally wounded in battle on 
October 8, 1967; he was posthumously awarded a second Silver Star. Bob 
was buried at West Point on October 17, 1967, with full military 
honors.
  Mr. Speaker, I would ask all my colleagues to rise and join me in 
honoring the service of a true American hero, Bob Arvin, and to honor 
the 70th anniversary of Ypsilanti Post 2408.

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