[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 90 (Friday, June 25, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S7513]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING BOB MICHEL

  Mr. DURBIN. Madam President, yesterday I introduced legislation to 
name the Veterans Affairs Clinic in Peoria, IL, the Bob Michel 
Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic in honor of former 
House Minority Leader Robert H. Michel.
  Bob Michel's interest in veterans' affairs began when he served in 
the Army's 39th Infantry Regiment, fighting on Normandy Beach during 
World War II. Wounded by machine gun fire during the Battle of the 
Bulge, he was discharged from the military as a disabled veteran after 
earning The Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars, and four Battle Stars.
  Michel began his life of public service in 1957, serving the citizens 
of the 18th District of Illinois in the House of Representatives. 
Because of his hard work and dedication to his constituents, he was 
elected minority whip and eventually House minority leader. He was also 
actively involved in the creation of several pieces of legislation that 
dealt with veterans' affairs, including a resolution that helped to 
remove obstacles to employment of partially disabled persons honorably 
discharged from the Armed Forces.
  A veteran himself, Michel understood the need for quality health care 
for those who served in the military. He used his prominent position in 
the House of Representatives to lead the effort to establish a VA 
clinic in Peoria. The clinic he helped to create now serves up to 
10,000 veterans a year, in as many as 12 counties in central Illinois. 
The clinic offers a variety of services for veterans, including medical 
and mental health services, ophthalmology, audiology and assistance for 
the homeless.
  Representative Ray LaHood, who now holds the Congressional seat 
previously held by Bob Michel, has introduced companion legislation in 
the House. Representative LaHood's bill is supported by all House 
members of the Illinois delegation.
  I hope that the Senate will act expeditiously in enacting this 
legislation. This bill will serve to honor Robert H. Michel who served 
our country through his service in the military and Congress.

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