[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 103 (Monday, July 14, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       TRIBUTE TO WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, 100 YEARS OF BUSINESS

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                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 14, 2003

  Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, It is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to honor and pay tribute to a leader in the business and banking 
community--Wilmington Trust Company, one of the nation's principal 
providers of wealth advisory, banking, and corporate client services. 
Wilmington Trust is celebrating 100 years of business, a milestone few 
companies manage to achieve. This company has proved outstanding over 
the years and on behalf of myself and the citizens of the First State, 
I would like to congratulate Wilmington Trust on all of their 
accomplishments in the past 100 years and offer it continued success in 
the many years to come.
  Today, I recognize Wilmington Trust for their accomplishments in the 
State of Delaware as well as the rest of the nation. Serving clients in 
60 countries demonstrates their strong loyalty and support from all 
their customers.
  Family, friends, and fellow Delawareans can now take a moment to 
truly appreciate everything Wilmington Trust has offered to the 
community. One hundred years ago, T. Coleman duPont recognized the need 
for secure financial resources in Delaware's growing business sector. 
The company has never had an unprofitable year and is currently only 
one of 159 public companies to have increased its dividend for over 20 
consecutive years.
  July 8, 1903, marks the first day for the banking, trust, and safe 
deposit company, originally run out of the dining room of a private 
residence. Mr. duPont served with remarkable vision as President and 
Chairman of the company from 1903-1912. After being with Wilmington 
Trust for over 30 years, Robert V.A. Harra, Jr. was elected President 
in 1996 and is currently continuing at this position. The current 
Chairman, Ted T. Cecala, was elected in 1996 and has worked for 
Wilmington Trust for over 20 years.
  This centennial celebration signifies 100 years of service, growth, 
and commitment to the company's founding principles of integrity, 
stability, continuity, independence, and excellence. These core beliefs 
will help form the foundation for Wilmington Trust's promising future.
  Wilmington Trust's accomplishments and contributions cannot be 
commended enough. As the company celebrates their diamond anniversary, 
we can be sure their contributions will continue for many years. Their 
commitment to serving the community has earned Wilmington Trust a 
permanent place in Delaware's history.

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