[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 107 (Friday, July 18, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1530]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO EDWIN J. SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 18, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I honor the 
life of a well-respected veterinarian and volunteer from my district. 
Edwin Smith of Pueblo, Colorado passed away recently, and as his loved 
ones mourn his passing, I would like to pay tribute to this outstanding 
individual before this body of Congress and this nation today.
  Edwin was born in Minturn, Colorado, grew up in the San Luis Valley, 
and spent much of his life in New Mexico before returning to Colorado 
nine years ago. Much of his childhood was spent on the family farm or 
in church, where he played the clarinet in a family band. After 
completing his education at Colorado State University, Edwin served his 
country in the military and then embarked on a career as a 
veterinarian. He treated his most famous patient in 1950, a two-month 
old cub who had been rescued from a forest fire in New Mexico. ``Smokey 
Bear'' soon became the center of the U.S. Forest Service's campaign to 
prevent forest fires.
  In addition to his work treating large and small animals, Edwin's 
professional achievements included serving as secretary for the New 
Mexico Veterinary Exam Board and as veterinarian for the Santa Fe Downs 
racetrack. Yet he still found time to give back to the community. Edwin 
was active in the Elks, Masons and Lions Clubs in addition to working 
with the Boy Scouts and serving as a church deacon. Even in his eighth 
decade, Edwin volunteered at a Cooperative Care Center, drove for Meals 
on Wheels, and took part in activities at his church.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the life and memory of 
Edwin Smith. He was a true community servant who loved to help animals 
and people alike. To his family, friends, and the many people in the 
community whose lives he touched, Edwin Smith will be deeply missed. My 
condolences go out to his family and friends during their time of 
bereavement.

                          ____________________