[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 60 (Saturday, April 12, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E783]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    JOHN J. McGUIRK DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS OUTPATIENT CLINIC

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ROB SIMMONS

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Saturday, April 12, 2003

  Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, l rise today in support of the naming of 
the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Community Based Outreach 
Clinic, located on the grounds of the United States Coast Guard Academy 
in New London, CT, as the ``John J. McGuirk Department of Veterans 
Affairs Outpatient Clinic.''
  As an enlisted salvage diver in the United States Navy during World 
War II, John McGuirk worked his way across the South Pacific from Pearl 
Harbor to Manila, Philippines aboard the USS Layson Island. For his 
service, John was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, American 
Theatre Medal, Asiatic Pacific Theatre Medal and Philippine Liberation 
Medal.
  When John J. McGuirk's contractual obligation to the United States 
Navy ended with an honorable discharge, his personal obligation to his 
country and fellow veterans' remained engraved upon his heart and 
became a lifelong commitment.
  His efforts helped to contribute to the VA Connecticut Healthcare 
system planning and operating a series of CBOC's across the state, 
providing primary care on a daily basis. Additionally, John played an 
instrumental role in the opening of the Veterans' Outreach Clinic 
located at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT.
  John actively served in Post #9 American Legion for the remainder of 
his life: twice as the Legion's Commander, additionally as the Finance 
officer and the Service officer. He was also a member of the Disabled 
Veterans of America and U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc.
  Mr. Speaker, John J. McGuirk was constant in his mission to serve his 
nation and fellow veterans. On behalf of the Members of the Connecticut 
House delegation, Disabled Veterans of America, Paralyzed Veterans of 
America, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and AMVETS, I would 
like to extend the opportunity for Members of the Subcommittee to 
support this measure and honor the memory of John J. McGuirk.

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