[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 50 (Thursday, March 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E597]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING JOHN DIGILIO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 27, 2003

  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Digilio as 
Chef de Chemin de Fer of La Societe des Quarante Hommes et Huit 
Chevaux. The ``Forty and Eight,'' as it is popularly known, is an 
independent fraternal organization of veterans comprised of 
approximately 50,000 veterans from World War II and the Korean, Vietnam 
and Desert Storm conflicts. The members of the ``Forty and Eight'' 
dedicate much of their time to their Child Welfare Program, Nurses 
Scholarship Trust Fund, as well as many activities dedicated to 
Americanism, respect for the flag, the Constitution and Law and Order.
  Chef Digilio grew up in Bay Shore, New York and entered active duty 
in the United States Army in 1969. From 1970-1971 he served in the 95th 
Evacuation Hospital, DaNang, Republic of Vietnam. After his return to 
the United States, he entered the New York Army National Guard and 
worked his way up the ranks to senior commander of all medical units by 
1986. On December 1, 1996, John was brevetted and placed on the New 
York State Retired List as brigadier general by the Governor of New 
York upon his retirement from military service.
  I am most grateful for Chef Digilio's dedicated service to our county 
over the last 34 years. In this time of war, especially, it is critical 
that we take the time to show our support for America's men and women 
who have served in uniform. I wish the ``Forty and Eight'' a festive 
and enjoyable Homecoming this upcoming weekend.

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