[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 102 (Wednesday, July 24, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1327]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO HOWARD W. PHILLIPS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 23, 2002

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a lifetime of 
achievements by Howard W. Phillips from Mt. Vernon, Illinois.
  Mr. Phillips dedicated his life to being a good citizen. He was a 
leader that was not only well respected, but loved by the people that 
knew him. Howard put the needs of his community above his own.
  As a veteran of the United States Navy, Howard defended his country 
and did it well. He entered the Navy on May 26, 1944. He served while 
World War 11 was devastating Europe. After his time in Active Duty, he 
became involved with veterans groups. Mr. Phillips was a member of 
American Legion Post 141. He served on the Military Burial Detail and 
was chaplain of the detail for 21 years. As chaplain he conducted 
almost 1,000 funerals. The Legion designated him Legionnaire of the 
Year in 1993 and again in 1997. He is the only person to receive this 
award twice.
  Mr. Phillips was past commander of AMVETS Post 4. While commander, 
Howard was designated by the state executive as the outstanding AMVET 
Adjutant in the state. Post 4 was also named the outstanding AMVET post 
by the National Commander while Howard was in charge. Another of his 
many achievements was being appointed chairman of all Jefferson County 
Veterans Groups in order to rename 42nd Street and Fishers Lane, in Mt. 
Vernon, to Veterans Memorial Drive.
  Howard was also an active member of Epworth United Methodist Church. 
His faith in God shined through in his personality. Mr. Phillips' love 
for others was demonstrated by involvement throughout the community. He 
participated in such groups as the American Cancer Society, the Mt. 
Vernon Fire and Police Commission, and the Murray Parents Association. 
Howard received the Dr. Plassman award for Outstanding Volunteer 
Service from the Murray Parents Association for his work with the 
handicapped.
  I would like to take this time to honor the memory of my friend that 
gave so much to his country and community. All men should aspire to 
hold themselves to a standard equal to that of this man, Howard W. 
Phillips. My heart and prayers go out to his family and friends.

                          ____________________